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WHAT ARE PUBIC LICE?
Pubic lice, also known as "crabs" are common and
found worldwide. They are small, crab-shaped insects (Phthirus
pubis). The tiny insect attach themselves to the hairs around
the pubic areas however can sometimes be found in armpit hair,
facial hair, or even eyelashes. Like fleas they then bite and
burrow into the host flesh to feed on the blood causing a rash
and itching. The adult lice lay eggs, called nits, on the hair
shaft close to the skin. The yellowish oval shaped egg takes
about 7-10 days to hatch and the cycle is repeated unless
treatment is obtained.
Scabies Picture
HOW DO YOU CATCH PUBIC-LICE ?
Pubic-lice are most often caught by physical contact of the
pubic area ie.during sexual contact of the genital areas. Less
often transmission can occur by contact with infested sheets,
towels or items of clothing, as the lice can survive without
a human host for one to two days. Although it is possible the
adult louse can survive on a toilet seat although it is a rare
occurence as lice that dislodge from the host are usually dead
or dying.
SYMPTOMS?
It is sometimes the case you can have pubic lice and show
no symptoms. Usually, itching occurs, which gets worse during
the night as the lice become more active. The lice is
somewhat camouflaged by its colouring and appearance so can
be difficult to see. If you are experiencing itching or a rash
it is advised you visit your health care professional for diagnosis
and treatment options.
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TREATMENT ?
The lice and thier eggs are not killed by ordinary soap and
water. There are a number of creams and rinses available over
the counter that will kill the lice and the eggs with one simple
treatment as per the instructions supplied with the product.
Once the lice and the eggs are removed it is important to prevent
re-infestation so the following measures should be undetaken.
Change to clean clothing immediately following treatment.
Machine wash all clothing (especially underwear), towels
and bed linen in hot water.
Items that can not be washed can either be dry cleaned or
isolated in plastic bags for a week or so.
Thoroughly disinfect the bathroom and shower. A strong bleach
solution will usually take care of any lice that are present.
You should make anyone with whom you are in intimate conact
aware of the condition so they can be checked and treated if
necessary.
Avoid contact with other persons until treatment is completed
and the absence of infestation is apparent.
If re-treatment is necessary you should seek professional
advice and assistance as there may be secondary conditions occuring.
Scabies
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