MedicalXpress: Winter clothing increases chances of children getting lice

The risk of pediculosis—an infestation of the hairy parts of the body or clothing with the eggs, larvae or adults of lice—increases considerably in winter. Lice spread most commonly among school-aged children through shared items like hats, coats, brushes or dress-up clothes, which present prime modes of transfer for the parasites. Ali Wurster, a nurse practitioner with the Texas A&M Health Mobile Health Clinic, told MedicalXpress about this.

Contrary to popular belief, lice don't jump or fly. While many believe individuals with dirty or unclean hair are more likely to attract lice, the reverse is true, Wurster said. The small, sesame seed-sized parasites prefer a clean scalp.

To prevent head lice, avoid sharing hats, brushes or clothing. School staff should regularly sanitize common items. Wurster also recommended keeping heads apart during nap time to further deter spread.

Wash clothing, bedding and other fabric items in hot water and dry on high heat. Non-washable items, like stuffed animals, should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. The reason is that lice cannot live outside a person's head for more than two weeks.

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