Myths Busted

By Fabrizio Spada PhD. - Research and Development Manager at Ego Pharmaceuticals

Speare R, Thomas G, Cahill C. Head lice are not found on floors in primary school classrooms. Aust N Z J Public Health. 2002; 26 (3): 208 - 211.

Head lice can be caught from animals i.e. a pet

FALSE

Human head lice are very specialised and will only live on human hair.

Head lice are harmful and spread desease

FALSE

Head lice have not been found to carry any diseases and are not harmful; however it is possible to have an irritant / sensitization reaction to the saliva of the lice. This will make the skin itchy and rash.

Global Health - Division of Parastitic Disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention[Internet]. 1/7/2015. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/head/gen_info/faqs.html

Head lice have become resistant to all forms of treatment so there is no point in buying de-lousing products

FALSE

While we are seeing resistance to some of the older pesticides* there are many head lice treatment products that are effective when used correctly.

*Greive KA, Altman P, Rowe JS, Staton JA, Oppenheim VMJ. A randomised, double-blind, comparative efficacy trial of three head lice treatment options: malathion, pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide and MOOV Head Lice Solution. Aust Pharmacist. 2007; 26(9): 738 - 743. Research sponsored by Ego Pharmaceuticals.

The only way I can make sure the head lice have been exterminated is if I wash and disinfect all the bedding.

FALSE

You do not need to wash bedding to eradicate head lice.* A lot of parents feel more comfortable washing the sheets, and this is not a problem – we all love clean sheets! MOOV Head Lice products are effective in destroying, detaching and defending against head lice.

Myths Busted

Myths Busted

By Fabrizio Spada PhD. - Research and Development Manager at Ego Pharmaceuticals

Head lice are a sign of poor personal hygiene. Lice prefer dirty hair

FALSE

Head lice can be caught through sharing hats

TRUE

Head lice can jump from head to head

FALSE

Head lice only infest children, adults don't get head lice

FALSE

Head lice can be contracted from swimming pools

FALSE

Head lice can be contracted from carpets

FALSE

Head lice can be caught from animals i.e. a pet

FALSE

Head lice are harmful and spread desease

FALSE

Head lice have become resistant to all forms of treatment so there is no point in buying de-lousing products

FALSE

The only way I can make sure the head lice have been exterminated is if I wash and disinfect all the bedding.

FALSE

All About Head Lice

Checking For Head Lice

Head Lice Hints & Tips

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