- A head louse is slightly smaller than a grain of rice and can be reddish-brown or tan in color. They are wingless and unable to jump, but have six legs used for crawling and grasping strands of hair. Nits are usually tear shaped in appearance and can be white or tan colored.
- Head lice can cause itching and inflammation of the skin. Frequent scratching of affected areas can lead to bacterial infection.
- Head lice are passed from person to person through shared use of hair brushes, hats, pillows, blankets and helmets. Lice can be prevented by avoiding contact with people who may be infected or items belonging to people who may be infected.
- Contrary to popular belief, people who get head lice are not "dirty". Head lice actually prefer clean hair over dirty hair, as it is easier to move through.
- Head lice can be treated with medicated shampoo or through use of over-the-counter medications. Special combs can be used to work lice and nits out of the hair.
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Effects
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