In head lice outbreaks, 'selfies' may be a surprising culprit

Anecdotal reports suggest a possible rise in head lice cases globally, with experts warning about the role of group selfies in spreading lice through close head-to-head contact. While scientific literature does not widely demonstrate an increase in head lice outbreaks, some clinics in North America, Europe, and Canada have reported a surge in demand for lice removal services. This increase may be attributed to a return to pre-pandemic lice levels as children resume activities that facilitate lice transmission. Commercial lice-removal clinics have seen a rise in visits, potentially due to failed home treatments or lice developing resistance to over-the-counter products. Various treatments, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and home remedies, are available to combat lice infestations. However, experts caution against using unproven remedies and highlight the importance of understanding the lice life cycle for effective treatment. Prevention measures include regular head checks, avoiding head-to-head contact, and using appropriate lice prevention products.