Bhubaneswar, Feb 12: Head lice are often dismissed as a minor nuisance, with many linking it only to itching and discomfort. But recent cases reveal that when left untreated, lice infestations can escalate into serious health risks with potentially dangerous consequences.

A 12-year-old girl, Lakshmipriya Sahoo, a resident of Champagada Sahi under Balanga block in Puri, died after months of untreated head lice infestation. After months of suffering, she was rushed to the hospital when she began vomiting blood.

Her mother, Satyabhama, said the infestation had badly affected the girl’s scalp. Embarrassment and discomfort had forced Lakshmipriya cover her head with a scarf while going to school. Over time, a strong foul smell began emanating from her scalp, forcing her to stop attending classes. “I had advised her to shave her head, but she refused,” recalled a teary-eyed Satyabhama.

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According to our source, on February 6, Laxmipriya suddenly vomited blood, following which her family rushed her to the Puri District Headquarters Hospital. Despite doctors’ effort, her health condition worsened even further and she died on the night of February 8.

A similar case had been reported in 2021. In Georgia, USA, a 12-year-old girl named Kaitlyn Yozaviak died due to severe health problems caused by long-term head lice infestation. Doctors said she suffered from severe anaemia, which led to a cardiac arrest. Investigators found that she had an extremely serious lice problem that lasted for years.

These two cases highlight how neglecting head lice can prove fatal.

How can head lice turn into a serious illness?

Head lice survive by biting the scalp and feeding on blood. When lice remain on the head for a long time, they can cause:

• Continuous blood loss
• Iron deficiency and anaemia
• Infections from scratching
• Heart problems in severe cases

A body needs enough iron to stay healthy. When lice bites continue for a long period, the body slowly becomes weaker.

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Why Awareness Is Important

Head lice should be treated as a health issue, not a minor problem. Doctors often advise to check your hair and scalp health at regular intervals, and start treatment early if the problem persists.

According to experts, to cure lice infestation, follow these steps carefully:

• Head lice can be treated with medicated shampoos, lotions, or creams - such as permethrin or ivermectin - to kill active lice, followed by careful removal of nits with a fine-toothed comb.
• To avoid re‑infestation, wash bedding, clothes, and hats used in the past two days in hot water at 130°F and dry them on high heat. Combs and brushes should be soaked in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes.

Compiled by: Aditi Majhi