Health Tip: Prevent the Spread of Head Lice

Lice are typically spread by direct head-to-head contact, and less often can be spread by sharing clothing or belongings such as backpacks, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says.

Once head lice fall from a host, they can survive for fewer than a couple of days, the agency adds.

The CDC suggests how to control the spread of head lice:

Avoid head-to-head contact with an infested person.
Do not share hats, scarves, coats, sports uniforms, hair ribbons or barrettes.
Do not share combs, brushes or towels. Disinfect combs and brushes by soaking them for several hours in hot water (at least 130 degrees F).
Avoid beds, couches, pillows, carpets, or stuffed animals that have recently been in contact with an infested person.
Wash and dry in hot water clothing, bed sheets and other items that an infested person used.
Items that are not washable can be dry-cleaned, or sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
Vacuum the floor and furniture, particularly where the infested person sat or lay.
Do not use fumigant sprays or fogs, which can be harmful to people.

Source: HealthDay