Head lice are tiny insects, but as they have no wings they cannot fly. They do however have strong claws that enable them to swing from hair to hair. They do not jump.
Head lice do not cause disease or illness but are a nuisance and can be difficult to manage. Anyone can get head lice and infestations are very common in school children.
Head lice can only survive on human heads. They live on the hair and suck blood from the scalp. The female louse lays 5 to 12 eggs per day. Eggs are sometimes called 'nits' and remain strongly glued to the hair even after hatching.
Because the eggs need the warmth and moisture of the scalp in order to hatch, they will be found up to 1.5cm from the scalp. Eggs that are further than 1.5cm from the scalp are either dead or hatched, and do not need treatment.
Detection
- Thoroughly apply hair conditioner to the hair and scalp
- Comb the hair to distribute the conditioner evenly
- Change to a fine toothed/head lice comb (available from chemist)
Comb the hair from the roots to the tips and wipe the comb on a tissue after each stroke. Adult lice are easy to see. Young lice and eggs are more difficult. You may need a magnifying glass. Dandruff and hair particles can be mistaken for eggs.
Treatment tips
Chemical treatment is available in the form of lotions and shampoos which are available from a chemist.
- Chemical products should be applied to nearly dry hair
- Apply thoroughly and spread evenly. Make sure all the hair is covered
- Leave on for the recommended time
- Chemical treatment will not kill eggs. Eggs will hatch after the first treatment so repeat treatments as per instructions on product.
- Chemical resistance is a problem. The insects often develop resistance to the particular chemical in the product being used. Discuss this with your local pharmacist who can suggest treatment options.
For further information on head lice contact the Animal and Pest Services branch on (07) 3412 5318.