Lice are tiny, wingless insects that live on human hair and feed on blood. They are a common problem worldwide, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds.

_Types of Lice:_

1. *Head Lice*: Live on human hair, particularly on the scalp.
2. *Body Lice*: Live on clothing and bedding, and feed on human blood.
3. *Pubic Lice*: Live on pubic hair and other coarse body hair.

_Characteristics:_

1. *Small Size*: Lice are about 2-3 millimeters long.
2. *Grayish-White Color*: Lice have a grayish-white color, but may appear darker after feeding.
3. *Six Legs*: Lice have six legs, which they use to crawl and cling to hair.
4. *Eggs (Nits)*: Lice lay eggs, also known as nits, which are attached to hair shafts.

_Symptoms:_

1. *Itching*: Lice bites can cause intense itching, particularly on the scalp.
2. *Redness and Irritation*: Lice bites can lead to redness, irritation, and inflammation.
3. *Visible Lice or Nits*: Lice or nits may be visible on the hair or scalp.

_Transmission:_

1. *Direct Contact*: Lice are transmitted through direct contact with an infested person's hair or clothing.
2. *Sharing Personal Items*: Sharing personal items, such as combs, brushes, or towels, can also spread lice.

_Treatment:_

1. *Medicated Shampoos*: Over-the-counter or prescription medicated shampoos can kill lice and nits.
2. *Combing and Nitpicking*: Using a fine-tooth comb or specialized nitpicking tools to remove lice and nits.
3. *Washing and Drying*: Washing and drying clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and high heat can help kill lice.

_Prevention:_

1. *Avoid Head-to-Head Contact*: Avoid head-to-head contact with others to reduce the risk of transmission.
2. *Use Personal Care Items*: Use personal care items, such as combs and brushes, and avoid sharing them with others.
3. *Regularly Check for Lice*: Regularly check for lice and nits, particularly after an outbreak in a school or community.