How Does Pubic Lice Spread?
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Introduction
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Lice are parasites that live on animals and humans, and live off of small amounts of their hosts' blood. Lice can be found in any area of the body that contains hair. Most frequently they are either found on the head or in the groin areas. When they are found near the groin, they are usually referred to as "pubic lice." They may also be referred to as "crabs". Pubic lice tend to live in coarser hair and may also be found on the eyebrows, facial hair or armpits.
Sexual Contact
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The most common way that pubic lice are spread is through sexual contact. Pubic lice can be prevented through limiting promiscuous sexual activity, or periodically checking the groin region for signs of infection. To prevent spreading them, treat the pubic lice immediately. You should also contact any recent sexual partners to warn them of your pubic lice outbreak. This will keep the lice from spreading further through other partners.
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Linens
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Pubic lice may also spread through linens such as towels, bedding and clothing. If you or someone in your household has become infected, you should wash all linens that have come in contact with that person. Wash all linens with hot water, then place them in the dryer on the hottest setting. Dry clean anything that cannot be washed this way. If you cannot afford to dry clean, seal the affected linens in an airtight plastic bag and leave for 3 to 4 weeks. This may kill most of the pubic lice, but is not as effective as dry cleaning or washing.
Personal Contact
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In rare cases, close personal contact may also spread pubic lice. If you are infected, you should refrain from close contact with others until you have been treated. If you have children, you should be treated immediately.
Treatment
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The most effective way to deal with pubic lice is to shave the area and apply a permethrin-containing lotion or mousse to the affected area. Take care to properly dispose of any removed hair as well as the razor to insure that no one else can get infected. Do not reuse the razor. Other prescription applications are available over-the-counter as well. Your doctor should be able to tell you which product will work best for your situation.
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Resources
- Photo Credit http://entoplp.okstate.edu
