Head lice are tiny parasitic insects that live in human hair and feed on small amounts of blood from the scalp. They are most common in children but can affect anyone. Head lice spread easily through close head-to-head contact and cannot jump or fly — they crawl from one person to another.
Symptoms include persistent itching, small red bites, and the presence of nits (lice eggs) attached to hair shafts. While lice are not dangerous and do not spread disease, they can cause discomfort and distress, particularly in children and families.
Our pharmacists can provide advice and support through the Common Ailments Service, recommending effective treatments such as medicated lotions or sprays and explaining the importance of thorough combing techniques to remove lice and nits.
We’ll also give advice on preventing re-infestation, such as checking and treating family members when needed, and avoiding the sharing of hats or hairbrushes. Treatments may be supplied free of charge, saving you a GP visit and helping you manage infestations quickly and effectively.
If you are currently living in Wales and registered to a Welsh GP, then you are eligible to access the Common Ailments Service.
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