Can Smartphones Lead to Spread of Head Lice? Let’s Find Out!

Parents can think of a thousand and one reasons why smartphones are bad for kids, but head lice infestation probably isn’t going to be one of them!

However, according to a recent study, it appears that head lice can effectively travel through mobile devices, including smartphones and cellular devices. This groundbreaking news comes at a time when children as young as 13 are seen with their own personal cell phones.

Talking Heads

The study, which was presented at the British Association of Dermatologists, also highlighted the fact that 45% of the children under study had contracted head lice in the past 5 years—an unprecedented mark.

Researchers were quick to reiterate that smartphones themselves are not the cause of the affliction, but rather a perpetrator—and a serious one at that.

At a time when technological devices like iPhones were not as common, the primary source of head lice was direct head-to-head contact. This made prevention considerably easier than it is now, especially in the wake of ineffective OTC treatment and medicated shampoos.

Since head lice can survive up to 24 hours without feeding on a human host, the chances of their traveling from head to head via smartphones is not just plausible but downright concerning.

Restricting Smartphone Access?

While it may be tempting to take this study as a reason to limit your children’s access to smartphones, it is not the best way to practice prevention.

In an age where technology sets the pulse of society, we rely on our cellular devices to stay in touch with our children and provide a way to call for emergency services.

Instead of limiting their access to a device that serves to keep us connected to our families, make an effort to prevent contagion by resorting to tried-and-tested strategies.

Urgent Lice Removal is a professional lice clinic in Miami, specializing in pesticide free lice removal methods for children as well as adults.

Offering comprehensive services in lice scanning, anonymous treatment and home inspection, we bring on board certified lice doctors to eliminate the root of the problem.

Whether you’re a child or an adult, we go the extra mile to ensure a safe, effective and embarrassment-free session so you can walk out of our salon with a lice-free head.

Think you or someone you know may have gotten head lice?

Don’t wait until someone points out and risk embarrassment! Call us now at 800-748-9451 and schedule an appointment!