You'll be surprised how common it is to be infected with head lice. Head lice, or head louse, aren't prejudice to any type of sex, colour, skin complexion, or age and it is an international condition that anyone can suffer from.
The scientific name for Head lice is Pediculosis and it is caused by parasites which are approximately the size of a grain of rice. A common misconception is that head lice are the same as pubic lice or body lice. This is not true. It is estimated that 1 in 10 children will become infected with head lice during their school years. Children are at a higher risk of being infected with head lice due to the regular close contact made with other children.
It is important to accept, mentioned earlier, that head lice can effect anyone, especially those who are regularly in close contact with people who are already infected. The sharing of hair implements such as combs, brushes and hair clips can also make you a higher risk. There is a common belief that due to the temperature made with hair straighteners, that they don't provide the opportunity to infect someone else with head lice. However, as it has not been proven correct or incorrect, it is best to assume that any hair implement which can be shared between people may always carry the risk of head lice. Even items such as pillowcases, towels, scarfs etc can carry head lice from one head to another.
The best way to ensure that any infestation is not spread is to follow a couple of simple rules. Firstly, don't share implements with people who are infected with head lice, secondly, if you suspect you may have head lice, regular brushing and combing with a steel comb will remove some of the lice - not all - and thirdly, regular use of special shampoo's or home remedies can help treat the infected head.
It is important to note, that quite often, prevention is better than cure. If you are able to prevent a head louse infestation by following certain rules, then you may never get infected. However, as mentioned earlier, head lice are a common ailment, more than some people think, and ultimately, if you are infected with head lice, then to treat the infestation as soon as possible.
