Head Lice Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

One thing that spreads faster than a lice outbreak? Misinformation about head lice. Misconceptions about these annoying and itchy insects are everywhere. This article will debunk some common myths, and what you should really be concerned with when dealing with these scalp-irritating bugs. 

Lice are very small, but in numbers, they can present some large problems. There are several common myths and misconceptions about lice that can sometimes lead to ineffective treatment and worsen the patient’s state. For expert lice treatment in Milwaukee and lice removal services, contact Lice Clinics of America Milwaukee.

They can fly and jump! 

Lice are only about the size of a sesame seed, making them very difficult to spot. They have small legs and don’t have wings. Crawling is their main method of moving. The most common method of transmission of lice is through direct head-to-head contact. 

If your scalp itches, that means you have lice! 

Dandruff and Dry skin are also common reasons people might have an itchy scalp. Although having an itchy scalp is one of the most common symptoms of a lice infestation.

Lice like long or dirty hair!

Lice actually prefer clean hair. They also have no preference for the length of hair. Lice simply use hair as a means to crawl to the scalp and drink blood.

Your pets can give you lice!

Lice are species-specific. This means that even if your pet does have lice, it is a species that cannot live on a human host. Human lice require species-specific human blood to survive and dog lice need dog blood to survive. Therefore, the same lice on your dog cannot transfer over to you. 

Lice can carry and transmit disease to people!

Head lice do not carry disease. Their cousins, larger lice, have been known to spread diseases like typhus. But the only medical danger lice pose is due to secondary infection from scratches to an itchy scalp.

Kids get lice at school!

Lice infestations spread through direct head-to-head contact with other people or through the sharing of personal items. This can happen at school. It can also occur at any place there are people sharing space  i.e., slumber parties, summer camps, little league games.

You have to use pesticides to kill lice!

While there are pesticide-based treatments, either over the counter or by prescription. These may not always be the best choice. The safer methods of lice removal use a safe amount of heat and combs to kill lice and remove them from your scalp.

After reading this article you should feel more confident about these common misconceptions and these pests. If your child or loved one is concerned about a lice outbreak and seeks lice treatment and removal, make sure you go to Lice Clinics of America – Milwaukee. Our professional team and staff will make sure you keep your head straight when dealing with these itchy insects.