Pediculous capitis is a common parasite encountered in salons and spas and refers to what?

• A. Head lice
• B. Scabies
• C. Body lice
• D. Ringworm

Answer: (A)

Pediculous capitis refers to the head louse, a tiny parasite that clings to hair and lives on the scalp, feeding on blood. It spreads mainly through direct head-to-head contact and by sharing grooming tools, hats, or towels in salons or spas. You might notice itching and the presence of nits, which are eggs that stick to hair shafts near the scalp. In a salon setting, preventing spread means not sharing tools, thoroughly sanitizing equipment, and guiding clients on appropriate treatment outside the salon. This is different from scabies, which is caused by a skin-burrowing mite; body lice, which live on clothing; and ringworm, a fungal infection of the scalp or skin that causes patches rather than living on the hair.