HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Lice
Cause
Lice are very easily spread, usually through close personal contact. Lice infestation may be caused by any of the three types of lice:
-
Reference Head lice Opens New Window Reference
Opens New Window may be spread through close
personal contact, shared personal items (combs, brushes, hats, helmets,
clothing, or earphones), or shared bedding. -
Reference Pubic lice Opens New Window Reference
Opens New Window are spread
mainly through sexual contact and are very contagious. Most people become
infected after a single exposure to an infected person. The lice and eggs
may also survive long enough on personal items such as clothing or towels to be
spread to another person. A child who has pubic lice may have a history
of sexual abuse. -
Reference Body lice Opens New Window Reference
Opens New Window are most often spread by
contact with personal items, especially clothing and hats. They are
sometimes spread by direct personal contact.
Lice are spread from human to human. Pets don't get head lice and can't spread them to humans.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference August 30, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Reference Susan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics |
|
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