Do Head Lice Bite? Are They Dangerous?
Short answer: the head louse can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Risk rating: Can bite or sting
Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Are head lice dangerous to humans?
Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
On our four-level scale, the head louse is rated can bite or sting, meaning it can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Head Lice can bite, so it is worth handling them with care.
Are they dangerous to pets?
Head Lice can bite or sting curious pets that paw at them or try to eat them. Watch for swelling, drooling or limping, and call your veterinarian right away if your pet has trouble breathing or a large reaction.
Can they damage your home or garden?
Head Lice don't damage homes; they live only on people.
What to do if you are bitten
- Wash the area with soap and water.
- Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling.
- Use an over-the-counter antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream for itching, following the label.
- Avoid scratching, which can lead to infection.
Call 911 right away if someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, dizziness or a racing heartbeat after a bite or sting.
How to identify head lice
A tiny, wingless insect that lives only on the human scalp and feeds on blood. Its eggs, called nits, are glued firmly to hair near the scalp.
- Sesame-seed-size tan or grayish insect on hair
- Oval nits cemented to hair shafts near the scalp
- Itching behind the ears and at the nape of the neck
| Scientific name | Pediculus humanus capitis |
|---|---|
| Group | Other Insects |
| Size | 2–3 mm (up to about 0.12 in) |
| Colors | Tan, Gray and White |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | No (as usually seen) |
| Where found | Indoors, anywhere |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | Yes |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Can bite or sting |
When you'll see head lice
Head Lice are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: indoors, anywhere.
About other insects
The head louse is one of the other insects. This group covers insects from several orders, including crickets, grasshoppers, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies, lacewings and planthoppers. Their life cycles vary widely: fleas and lacewings go through complete metamorphosis, while crickets, grasshoppers, mantises and lice grow gradually through nymph stages.
Check the specific profile for timing, because each of these insects has its own season and habits.
How to avoid problems with head lice
- Use an over-the-counter or prescription lice treatment exactly as directed
- Comb wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb every few days for two weeks
- Wash recently used bedding and hats in hot water
Frequently asked questions
Do head lice bite?
Yes. Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Do head lice sting?
No, head lice do not sting.
Are head lice poisonous?
The head louse can bite or sting, usually with mild, local effects. Head lice are itchy but don't spread disease; they spread mainly by head-to-head contact.
Where do head lice live?
Head Lice are usually found indoors, and are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.