The number of people who develop
lice infestations varies by the specific type:
Head lice
outbreaks are common in children in school
and day care. Girls are slightly more likely to be infested than boys. Even
people who bathe, shampoo their hair, and wash their clothing regularly can get
head lice. Having long hair does not increase a person's chance of getting head
lice.1 In North America, blacks are less likely to be
infested with head lice than are whites. 2
Pubic lice are common among sexually active teens and
young adults.
Body lice are more common among people who do not
bathe regularly or who do not wash their clothes often.1 People who are homeless or who have been victims of war or
natural disasters may live in conditions where it is more difficult to bathe
and wash clothing regularly, which increases their risk of getting body lice.
While many people are embarrassed about having lice, they can infest
people from all races and socioeconomic backgrounds.
