A public-health approach to head lice infestation

Community, primary care and public health practitioners in the UK are expected to take a preventative and evidence-based approach to health services. For some clinical presentations such as head lice, this can be challenging. Head lice infestation is a widespread problem that has potential to cause further health problems if untreated, as well as stress and disruption for families. Despite head lice having been present for thousands of years, society is little closer to tackling the associated stigma, shame, and embarrassment, or in finding practical and reliable, evidence-based treatments. This article presents a case for the diagnosis and management of head lice from a public-health and person-centred perspective and highlights the need for further research.