Head Lice : Epidemiology And Treatment Options

By Author: M. Gordon.
Total Articles: 6
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Actually, the answer is yes. Studies have shown that in the U.S. the highest incidence of head lice occurs in children between the ages of 4-11 years old. It is estimated that one in every one hundred school aged children will contract head lice each school year.

Where do head lice strike most often? Is there a pattern to whom, when and where this nasty little, six legged, wingless parasite will attack?

Actually, the answer is yes. Studies have shown that in the U.S. the highest incidence of head lice occurs in children between the ages of 4-11 years old. It is estimated that one in every one hundred school aged children will contract head lice each school year. Head lice are more frequent in girls because they tend to wear their hair longer and often down on, or below, the shoulders. Because head lice travel by scent through close physical contact, long hair contributes to the spread.

Head lice are not a sign of poor hygiene or a dirty home. Lice actually prefer clean hair to dirty, so even the most sterile environments will not stop the spread of head lice. Lice do not discriminate when it comes to socioeconomics ...
... either. Lice affectpeople of all ages, races and income levels.

Lice are least likely to affect African Americans. This is primarily because African Americans tend to have a different hair quality than many other ethic groups. The hair shaft is often more oval shaped, making it difficult for head lice to grasp on to the hair and make their home. Less lice infestations could also be attributed to the fact that it more difficult for lice to navigate through tightly braided hair and hair treated with products containing oils.

So, what kills lice? If your child is found to have head lice, be sure to research a naturalshampoo for lice.Finding an appropriate lice curecan be overwhelming, but there is no need for the knee-jerk reaction of purchasing OTC products that may harm you child, or any type of dangerous lice spray. Some may falsely believe that “the stronger the better”. When, in fact, these harsh chemicals may be ineffective due to a resistance built up in the insect due to over exposure. Read the labels carefully. If the treatment of lice you are considering contains Pyrethrins, PiperonylButoxide, Malathion, Permethrin or Lindane please put it back on the shelf! Find a shampoo for head licethat is safe and effective.
Resource: http://www.happyheadsproducts.com/