Head Lice (Pediculosis Capitis)  A parent's guide to condition and treatment information

Head lice can occur in anyone, but children aged 3–11 are most likely to become infested. All socioeconomic groups can be affected, and infestation is not related to the cleanliness of the person or their environment. Because the louse's claws are better able to grasp certain hair types more than others, those with course, curly hair are affected less often than those with smoother hair types. In addition, girls are more likely to have head lice than boys, possibly because they tend to have longer hair. Head lice infestations are most often seen in situations in which there is close personal contact, such as schools, home, playgrounds, sports, and camp. Lice eat only human blood. Therefore, pets and other animals do not spread the infection.