Three kinds of lice live and breed on man: head, body, and crab lice. All can live on the human body and suck blood. Pediculosis or lousiness is one of the most prevalent communicable conditions in this country. Lice are transferred from person to person by direct contact or by several people using the same combs, brushes, or bedding. Human lice are not found on animals or household pets and are not transmitted from pets to humans.
Head Louse and Body Louse
Head louse infestations are more prevalent than those of the body louse. Head louse infestations are normally found on children, but can also be spread to adults. The head louse is not considered to be a serious vector of disease although severe infestations may cause irritation, scratching and subsequent invasion of secondary infection.
Body louse infestations are normally associated with poor personal hygiene and poverty. Body lice are capable of transmitting louse-borne typhus, but in the United States the disease is not prevalent.
Head louse
The reaction of individuals to louse bites can vary considerably. Persons previously unexposed to lice experience little irritation from their first bite. After a short time individuals may become sensitized to the bites and may have a general allergic reaction.
Crab Louse
The crab louse has a short broad body and the general appearance of a crab. It is well adapted for survival where coarse hair grows, especially in the pubic regions. Crab lice don't move around as much as head and body lice. They are usually transferred by direct contact.