Scientific Name: Pediculus humanus capitis
![](https://parasiteguide.libbymitchell.dcreate.domains/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/pediculus_humanus_high.jpg)
Morphological Characteristics
This ectoparasite is small with sharp claws for holding on to hair. They are 3-4 mm long.
Identification Methods
The best identification method is finding a louse in the host’s hair.
Life Cycle
- Adult females lay eggs (nits) on the scalp. They take about 1 week to hatch
- The egg hatches a nymph, which is dull yellow and remains attached to the hair shaft as it goes through 3 molts to become an adult 7 days after hatching
- The adult is slightly larger and tan. They will continue to lay eggs and live up to 30 days on a person’s head while feeding on their blood
*Transmitted through contact with another person
HOST INFORMATION
- Only have human hosts
- Spread by close contact with an infected person (must be direct because they cannot hop or fly)
- A lice medication called pediculide can be used to kill lice and their eggs
- Most common amongst school children
- Hygiene has nothing to do with getting lice
GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION
Distribution of head lice occurs worldwide.
SOURCES
https://www.cdc.gov/dpdx/pediculosis/index.html