Head Lice

Bulletin 893-01

Authors

Susan C. Jones, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of Entomology
Extension Specialist, Household & Structural Pests

Judy V. Bozick, R.N.
Columbus, Ohio

Contents

• Introduction
• Description and Habits
• Life Cycle
• Injury
• Symptoms
• Detection
• Spread of Head lice
• Prevention of Head Lice
• Control Measures Using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach
  • Some Steps to Eradicate Head Lice in the Environment
  • Some Steps to Eradicate Head Lice on the Person
    • Nit Combs
    • Nit Picking Step-by-Step
    • Extermination of Head Lice Adults and Nymphs on Hair
    • Insecticidal Strategies
    • Combination Strategies
    • Non-Insecticidal Strategies
    • Dangerous Home Remedies
• Conclusions
• Non-Prescription Insecticidal Treatments
• Non-Prescription Insecticidal Products For Use After An Insecticidal Treatment
• Prescription-Only Insecticidal Treatments
• Some Alternative (Non-Insecticidal) Head Lice Products

The following images have been provided by The National Pediculosis Association.

Click here for the PDF version of this Bulletin.

All educational programs conducted by Ohio State University Extension are available to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or Vietnam-era veteran status.

Keith L. Smith, Associate Vice President for Ag. Adm. and Director, OSU Extension.

TDD No. 800-589-8292 (Ohio only) or 614-292-1868