Head Lice

Head lice are tiny wingless insects that live on the scalp. They do not carry any diseases, so they are not a public health risk. Anyone can get head lice.

Treatment Options

For guidance on treatment and information about attending school, please visit the Canadian Paedatric Society.

Head Lice - FAQs (PDF)
View, download and print the Health Unit’s most frequently asked questions about head lice.

Date of creation: May 27, 2013
Last modified on: September 13, 2023

Head Lice Comb

References

¹Canadian Pediatric Society. (2008). Head Lice Infestation: A Clinical Update; Position Statement

²District Health Authority Public Health Services and The Department of Health Promotion and Protection. (2008). Guidelines for Treatment of Pediculosis Capitus. Nova Scotia

³Harvard School of Public Health. (2000). Head Lice Information. Boston, Massachusetts, USA