Every parent’s wish when they examine their child’s head is that it’s not head lice but maybe another creepy crawler. There is a chance it could be something else other than head lice because there are other bugs that most definitely can be mistaken for lice. However, even though other pests might look like lice there are some distinctive differences in characteristics between lice and other insects. By knowing what lice look like and the symptoms you will be able to spot the difference between other insects and head lice much faster.

Bed Bugs

Bed bugs look very similar to head lice since they are both small oval-shaped insects. However, head lice are transparent in color, and bed bugs are brownish to reddish color. Both head lice and bed bugs bite their hosts causing itchy and uncomfortable sores. But the key difference between the two is head lice bites are limited to primarily the scalp. Whereas bed bug bites can be found anywhere on the body. Bed bugs can reside anywhere in one’s house, including the mattress, furniture, and even clothing, which is why bed bugs will bite humans anywhere they have access to.

Scabies

Scabies has similar symptoms as lice, but they are microscopic mites that burrow into the skin where it then lays eggs. One differentiation between the two is head lice can be seen with the naked eye and normally in the form of lice eggs. While scabies cannot be seen, only their symptoms are evident. Symptoms include intense, frequent itching causing a pimple-like rash to occur, which head lice also cause. Another key similarity between scabies and head lice is they’re both transmitted via direct contact. If you are ever questioning whether your child has head lice or scabies the way to confirm is by examining your child’s head and seeing if nits are present. If nits are there it’s time to take your child to our lice removal service..

Fleas

Fleas mainly affect and live on animals such as dogs and cats but since they’re a parasite they don’t discriminate against humans. Normally, flea bites will be found on the feet and legs which crosses out the potential of it being head lice. Another striking difference is fleas jump and you can normally see them jumping on your pet or on your carpet.

If It’s Head Lice

If you’ve done your research and canceled out the possibility of it being other insects and head lice is the only one that checks all the boxes it’s time to let the professionals look. Our head lice removal service located in Savannah, Ga, is meant to be a quick one-time process that rids your child of head lice so you can get back to your day. Book an appointment with us today at either of our locations in Jacksonville, Fl, Orlando, Fl, and Savannah, GA.

Schools Without Lice

At Fresh Heads Lice Removal, our mission is to get rid of lice in schools across the United States. We’ve partnered with the Lice Clinics of America to create the Schools Without Lice program. Through this program, we provide school nurses and teachers with free screenings, resources, and treatments. Together, we can have schools without lice!