Lice and Ticks:
As the holiday break ends, many of our children return back to school. January signals that it is time for our kids to return to school. While we are busy packing away decorations, putting away the presents and lawn ornaments, some insects and bugs are getting comfy cozy on /in our homes, businesses, and on us! including our scalps, such as nits.
Head Lice
Head lice/ nits are tiny wingless parasitic insects that feed and live on the human scalp and feed on blood. Head lice live on average one month with females laying three to four eggs daily.
When head lice consume blood, they inject saliva with an anticoagulant to prevent clotting (similar to other parasites). They cause irritation and itching on the scalp. Scratching can lead to infections on the skin.
Lice are common in all school grades and all age children. Gyms, all classes, Playgrounds, schools, and indoor play areas locations for lice to find new hosts. Lice are easily spread among children and their families through direct and indirect contact such as playing, sharing, toys, towels, combs, and brushes.
Anyone infected with lice will need to seek appropriate scalp treatment. Many Over the Counter treatments are available but we recommend seeking a doctor as we are not licensed to give advice for self-treatments.
Ticks
Ticks are another parasitic insect that attaches themselves to human or animal hosts. Ticks carry a range of serious diseases and will infect animals and humans.
To keep you and your loved ones safe, keep your yard and shrubs manicured and employ a lawn spray company. Also, keep stored lumber and debris at least 25' from your property. It is also important to vacuum frequently, wash linens, and pet beds regularly.
If you find ticks in your home or on a pet it’s time to contact a pest control company such as Imperial Pest Prevention to treat your home for insects, lawn spraying, shrubs, and trees.