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How are lice different from other insects?
for Health
Lice can be an embarrassing problem and even frightening to think about but the truth is that it’s not as bad as it seems. Lice can affect anyone regardless of cleanliness and only feeds on blood so they are not a sign of uncleanliness or poor hygiene. Knowing the truth about lice and debunking the myths can help you tackle an infestation if it occurs and know how to protect yourself and loved ones from them.
Myth 1: Lice Transmission
One of the most commonly held beliefs is that lice is passed through contact or sharing items. While it’s true lice can be spread through direct contact with another person, lice can also spread through contact with materials that have been in contact with an infested person such as bedding, hats, pillows and towels.
Myth 2: Lice Spread Disease
The second myth is that lice can spread disease, lice cannot spread disease. Lice are unable to transmit diseases from person to person who may have lice. However, because lice feed on human blood it can cause skin irritation and other reactions, such as itching and scratching.
Fact 1: Treatment Options
The first fact is that there are a variety of treatments available for lice infestations ranging from over-the-counter products to prescription medications. If you believe you or a loved one might have lice, it’s important to seek medical advice for the best treatment plan for you.
Fact 2: Lice Prevention
The second fact is there are a few preventative measures that can be taken to help reduce the risk of lice infestation. These include avoiding direct contact with infested persons and materials they have come into contact with, regular head checks and avoiding the sharing of hats, hairbrushes, combs and other personal items.
The truth about lice is much less frightening than the myths that circulate about infestations. Knowing the facts and understanding the reality of lice can help you tackle an infestation and keep your family safe.
