Head Lice: 9 Weird Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Despite the panic about head lice that spreads the minute you get that dreaded letter home from school, these little creatures are not at all dangerous to humans. They don’t transmit diseases and they don’t usually cause pain — just annoying itching and some simple treatment.

Still, head lice are rather mysterious parasites, and it’s easy to fear the unknown, so let’s clarify a few key things about these critters. In this video, learn nine facts about head lice won’t make you love them, but you’ll probably be a little calmer next time you hear about a lice outbreak at your kid’s school or camp. Check out more must-know tips for preventing head lice and treatment options if they do come home with your kids.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP

Karen Hovav, MD, FAAP, has more than 15 years of experience as an attending pediatrician. She has worked in a large academic center in an urban city, a small community hospital, a private practice, and an urgent care clinic.

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