How does lice infestation begin

Scientists believe head lice began to evolve on a different path than body lice about the time humans started to wear more clothing. Body lice evolved to attach to clothing fibers which are typically thicker and stronger than a human hair. Head lice stuck with the scalp. Researchers have used this information to speculate that humans may have used clothing much earlier than previously believed. Clade B head lice are thought to have originated in North America, and then to have migrated to farther reaches of the world, including Australia and Europe.

The DNA from the mitochondria of head lice cells collected from lice around the world have been used to trace back the ancestry of lice to a common lineage about 2 million years ago. They now believe that Clade C then split off from the group. Much later, between , and 1 million years ago, Clade B split from Clade A. Scientists believe that lice, due to their relationship with humans, can provide important information about human evolution. Because they live only on human hosts, only feed on human blood, and die shortly after separation from a host, their DNA is a relatively pure link to human evolution.

Lice are continuing to evolve, to the point that many of the traditional lice treatment products used for the past several decades are no longer effective. Multiple studies have shown that the majority of lice in the U. So now you know where lice come from—the short answer and the long answer.

With million new cases of head lice each year in the U. However, there has been research in a new area of lice treatment. Scientists studying lice at the University of Utah found that lice die when exposed to heated air, as long as the air falls within a specific airflow and temperature.

The device uses warm air to dehydrate the lice and eggs, depriving them of the humidity needed to survive. Body lice are spread by lice living on unwashed clothing. Unlike other kinds of lice, the spread of body lice can be prevented fairly simply. Clothes should be washed often after wearing, and you should avoid sharing clothing with others. Children that contract pubic lice may be victims of sexual abuse.

There are a number of treatments that can effectively get rid of head lice. These include over-the-counter products, natural remedies, and prescription medications. However, it is important to note that there are no natural or alternative products recommended by the CDC for the treatment of lice.

Getting rid of lice completely involves three steps. No matter what kind of lice you have, the treatment process is essentially the same:. The most common treatment product for lice involves pediculicide shampoo. After applying this treatment to the affected area, hair should not be washed for up to two days.

You should thoroughly vacuum any area of your home where hairs might have fallen. Any bedding or clothing that has been exposed to the lice needs to be machine washed in hot water.

You may wish to avoid the use of lice medications on yourself or your small children. Some natural products promise the same results as pediculicides. A natural product that is not regulated may carry its own risks, especially in small children. Some studies have shown that essential oils may have a role in lice treatment.

If you have lice, you may find relief with the following oils:. Lice seem to be building resistance to some commonly used products. The American Council of Science and Health reports that in certain areas of the United States, traditional lice treatment products are no longer as effective at getting rid of infestations.

There is no proven product or method that will completely eliminate the spread of lice, but there are steps you can take to lower your chances of getting it. Avoid head-to-head contact with other people whenever possible. Never share personal hygiene products, especially combs or brushes. Tell your school-aged children about lice and the steps they can take to help minimize the risk of contracting it.

Occasionally, an allergy to lice feces will lead to a rash and additional discomfort in the affected person.

Continuous scratching of an area to relieve itching can lead to breaking the skin barrier and, subsequently, an infection in that area. In rare cases, lice living on eyelashes can lead to eye inflammation and pinkeye.

Sometimes the very idea of lice can lead to stress and sleepless nights for children and parents. If this occurs, you should repeat the entire treatment seven days from your initial treatment date.

Your life will most likely be lice-free again quickly. More Information Head lice prevention. Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Head lice: Frequently asked questions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Feb. Kimberlin DW, et al. Pediculosis capitis. In: Red Book Online. American Academy of Pediatrics; James WD, et al.

Elsevier; Dinulos JGH. Infestations and bites. In: Habif's Clinical Dermatology. Head lice: Treatment frequently asked questions. Centers for Disease Control and Protection. Mayo Clinic; Gunning K, et al. Lice and scabies: Treatment update. American Family Physician. Goldstein AO, et al.