Skin

Head lice: virtual care options

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and lay eggs, called nits, on hair shafts. They are common in school-age children, spread mainly through head-to-head contact, and are not a sign of poor hygiene.

See virtual care for Lice

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Common symptoms

What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.

An itchy scalp, especially behind the ears and at the neck
Tiny eggs stuck firmly to hair close to the scalp
Small moving insects in the hair
A tickling feeling of something moving in the hair
Sores on the scalp from scratching

What a virtual visit may involve

Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.

A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks about symptoms and what has been tried
Sharing photos of nits or lice close to the scalp
A provider may recommend a treatment plan or prescribe treatment if appropriate, for example if earlier treatment did not work
Guidance on combing, checking household members, and cleaning items

When in-person care may be better

Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.

The person with lice is an infant
Scratched areas on the scalp look infected or the neck glands are swollen and sore
Lice keep returning after several rounds of treatment
Lice or nits are in the eyelashes or eyebrows

When to go to the ER

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:

Fever with a red, swollen, painful scalp or spreading redness
Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or trouble breathing after using a lice product
A product has gotten into the eyes and there is severe pain or vision change

Ready to explore a virtual visit for Lice?

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Common questions

Lice, answered.

General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.

Can a doctor treat lice online?

Yes. A provider can review photos and your history in a virtual visit and suggest a plan, including prescribing treatment if appropriate when earlier treatment has not worked.

How do lice spread?

Lice spread mainly through direct head-to-head contact. Sharing hats, brushes, or pillows is a less common route, and lice do not jump or fly.

Do I need to treat the whole family for lice?

Everyone in the household should be checked, but usually only people with live lice or nits near the scalp are treated. A provider can advise on your situation.

This is not for emergencies.

For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.