Lice

Head Lice

R. W. Baldwin, P. G. Koehler, J. W. Diclaro II, and F. M. Oi

Human Lice: Body Louse, Pediculus humanus humanus Linnaeus and Head Louse, Pediculus humanus capitis De Geer (Insecta: Phthiraptera (=Anoplura): Pediculidae)

H. V. Weems and T. R. Fasulo

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Body Lice and Pubic Lice

C. W. Scherer, P. G. Koehler, and J. W. Diclaro II

This document provides an overview of body lice and pubic lice, detailing their biology, transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Body lice, which can transmit diseases like typhus, are less common in the U.S., while pubic lice are a significant nuisance. Both types of lice are blood-sucking insects that cause itching and irritation. Treatment involves washing clothing and bedding in hot water and using medicated shampoos or creams. The document emphasizes the importance of hygiene and alerting sexual partners in cases of pubic lice infestation. 

Crab Louse, Pthirus pubis (Linnaeus) (Insecta: Phthiraptera (Anoplura): Pediculidae)

H. V. Weems and T. R. Fasulo

The Featured Creatures collection provides in-depth profiles of insects, nematodes, arachnids and other organisms relevant to Florida. These profiles are intended for the use of interested laypersons with some knowledge of biology as well as academic audiences.

Integrated Pest Management in the Home series: Does your head itch? Facts About Head Lice

Nelly Nelson, LuAnn Duncan, Jenny Rodriguez, Katherine Allen, Karen Stauderman, Lisa Hamilton, and Faith Oi

My head is itchy… could I have head lice? What are head lice? How do people get them? How do people inspect for them? How can people treat head lice? What should schools do about head lice? Will pesticides work? Will home remedies work? What can happen?! Integrative Pest Management in the Home to the rescue! The IPM at Home Series is a county faculty initiative intended to provide answers to frequently asked questions about household pests. This publication answers common questions about head lice. Aimed at the general public and delivered in a friendly, matter-of-fact style, it is intended to allay fears and provide practical help for people experiencing a common—and fortunately eminently solvable—problem.