Although head lice are a nuisance, they are not known to spread diseases. Adult head lice are roughly 2-3 mm long. Head lice infest the head and neck and attach their eggs to the base of the hair shaft. Lice move by crawling; they cannot hop or fly. Head lice infestation, or pediculosis, is spread most commonly by close person-to-person contact. Dogs, cats, and other pets do not play a role in the transmission of human lice. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are available for treatment of head lice infestations.

Resources

Steps for Treating Head Lice
ZMCHD Guidelines for Treating Head Lice
Removing Head Lice Safely Video
Head Lice 101
Facing Head Lice: A Guide for Families