Symptoms
The most common symptom of lice infestation is itching of the scalp. This itching is caused by an allergic reaction to the lice’s saliva. Other symptoms may include redness and irritation of the scalp, sores from scratching, and visible lice or nits (lice eggs) on the hair. Nits are oval-shaped, about the size of a pinhead, and are usually found at the base of the hair shaft close to the scalp.
Causes
Lice are spread through direct head-to-head contact with an infected person, or by sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones. They can also be spread through indirect contact with items such as clothing, bedding, or furniture that has been in contact with an infected person. Lice can survive for up to 48 hours away from the human head, so it is important to be aware of these potential sources of infestation.