Lice
Lice are parasitic insects that live in human hair. Usually more irritating than dangerous, these little critters can be a chore to get rid of (and prevent in the first place). The resources in this Web guide can help you accomplish both of those goals.
Expand All Guide SectionsWhat is Lice?
Learn the telltale signs and symptoms of a lice infestation using the online resources recommended here.
Dulcinea's Insight
- Pubic lice (“crabs”) are considered a sexually transmitted disease. The findingDulcinea Sexually Transmitted Diseases Web Guide contains information about testing, treatment and prevention of these conditions.
Dulcinea's Picks
For an overview …
WebMD
briefly explains how the three types of lice—head lice, body lice and pubic lice—are spread.
For head lice …
KidsHealth
reviews the signs and symptoms of a head lice infection in children, going into useful detail about what nits (lice eggs) and adult lice look like on the scalp. Don’t miss the discussion about how lice are spread.
NPR
contains information that helps dispel some of the myths about the transmission of head lice, such as the idea that they come from a person with bad hygiene.
For body lice …
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
lists the people most at risk of contracting body lice, and the diseases caused and transmitted by body lice.
For pubic lice …
The Minnesota Department of Health
discusses the signs and symptoms of pubic lice and scabies, as well as the transmission of this condition.
Treatment and Prevention of Lice
The Web sites in this section offer information on the prevention and treatment of a lice infestation.
Dulcinea's Insight
- A new form of “super lice” affecting school children has created problems for adults trying to get rid of them. See findingDulcinea’s article, “‘Super Lice’ Plaguing Some Schools,” to learn more.
Dulcinea's Picks
For treatment and prevention …
The American Academy of Pediatrics
explains how to check for head lice, how to conduct a nitpicking session and how to prevent a problem from spreading.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
answers some frequently asked questions about treating head lice, such as whether mayonnaise is an effective home remedy.
Mayo Clinic
offers suggestions about when to seek medical care for a head lice, body lice or pubic lice infestation, and discusses treatments and prevention tips.
For kids …
KidsHealth
features an article for kids about the causes, treatment and prevention of head lice.
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