Human Head Louse

**Semantic type:** Eukaryote

**Definition:** Small parasitic insects that can cause a itching red rash to the skin of the waist, shoulders, armpits, neck and pubic area. Commonly spread from person-to-person via close contact. The eggs (nits) of head lice can be mistaken for dandruff, but they are adherent to the hair shafts.

**Synonyms:** - Head Lice - Head Louse - Pediculus humanus capitis