lice are very easily spread usually through close personal contact. lice infestation may be caused by any of the three types of lice: head lice may be spread through close personal contact shared personal items (combs brushes hats helmets clothing or earphones) or shared bedding. pubic lice are spread mainly through sexual contact and are very contagious. most people become infected after a single exposure to an infected person. but the lice and eggs may survive long enough on personal items such as clothing or towels to be spread to another person. a child diagnosed with pubic lice may have a history of sexual abuse. body lice are most often spread by contact with personal items especially clothing and hats. they are occasionally spread by direct personal contact. webmd medical reference from healthwise this information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. © 1995-2011 healthwise incorporated. healthwise healthwise for every health decision and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise incorporated.
what causes lice?