Itching at the scalp, especially around the nape of the neck and behind the ears, is the most common early symptom. You may also notice red bumps or see small white nits (eggs) stuck near the base of the hair shaft.

Lice are spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact. They can also be transmitted via shared personal items like hats, hairbrushes, or bedding, but this is less common.

No. Lice cannot jump or fly — they crawl. That’s why direct contact is usually required for transmission.

During peak seasons (start of school, summer camps), weekly checks are a good habit. After known exposure, check daily for at least 10 days.

Nits are firmly attached to the hair shaft and won't flick off easily, unlike dandruff. Nits are also more uniform in shape and color.

Start with a thorough comb-out using a metal lice comb and apply a lice treatment product. Notify close contacts and your child’s school or care provider if applicable.

Lice don’t survive long off the scalp. Focus on cleaning items that had recent direct contact with the head — pillowcases, hats, brushes — and vacuum soft surfaces.

Discourage head-to-head contact, keep long hair tied up, and avoid sharing personal items like brushes and headphones. Regular head checks help catch early cases.

Some natural products can help, but the most effective approach is mechanical removal using a quality lice comb, ideally combined with a proven treatment product.

Most schools allow return after initial treatment and removal of live lice. Policies vary, so check with your organization. Continued combing for 7–10 days is recommended.

No. Head lice are species-specific and cannot live on dogs, cats, or other household pets.

With a thorough comb-out and treatment, most live lice can be removed in one session. However, follow-up combing over 7–10 days is essential to catch any newly hatched nits and prevent reinfestation.