Lice and Scabies

Lice are tiny, white, wingless insects that may live on the skin, hair, or clothing. They feed by biting the skin and sucking blood. The bites itch. Lice lay tiny eggs, called nits, which can often be seen on the hair. Head lice live in the hair on the head; body lice live on clothing; and pubic lice (also called crabs) live in the groin, underarms, and eyelashes. Lice are spread by close physical contact or contact with the clothing, bedding, brushes, or combs of an infected person. Pubic lice can be spread by sexual contact.

Scabies are tiny mites that burrow under the skin and lay eggs. This burrowing causes an allergic reaction with a rash that itches intensely. They are often found between folds of skin on the fingers and toes, wrists, underanus, and groin. They are usually treated with a prescription medication that is applied over the entire body and left on overnight. Itching may last for several weeks after treatment. Over the counter lotions for lice may not be strong enough to treat scabies.

Prevention

Be alert for signs of lice: itching and signs of lice or nits along the hair shafts of the head. Prompt treatment can help prevent spreading them to others.

Home Treatment

Nix and RID are over the counter medications for lice. Follow the manufacturer's directions for use. Treat the entire family. For head lice, comb the hair well with a fine toothed comb after treatment to remove all nits.

On the day you start treatment, wash all clothing worn in the last week, bedding, and towels in hot water to help get rid of lice, nits, and mites. Iron things that cannot be washed.

Contact your pharmacist or health department for more information on treatment and preventing reinfestation.

When to Call a Health Professional

If treatment with over the counter medication is not successful. Stronger prescription drugs are available.

If you suspect scabies. (Prescription medications are needed to treat scabies.)