What are the symptoms of head lice infestation in children?

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  A Dr. James Fortenberry, MD , Pediatrics, answered on behalf of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

  Lice are small, wingless, gray-tan insects. Head lice only live on humans, and anyone can get them, even with good health habits and hair washing. Head lice can be spread from one person to another by close contact or by sharing personal items. Lice lay tiny white eggs called nits that may also be seen in the hair.

  They do not cause serious illness.

  Your child may have one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Tiny gray bugs in the hair. Adult lice are about the size of a sesame seed.
  • Nits attached to the hair
  • Itchy scalp
  • Scalp rash
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  A Scripps Health answered

  If children complain of an itchy scalp or scratch their heads frequently, parents can use a magnifying glass to look for nits, which are tiny white or brown eggs that stick to the hair shaft. Contrary to popular belief, head lice do not carry disease, nor do they indicate poor hygiene. 
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