Insects and Ticks > Lice > Head Louse

Pubic Louse

Geographical distribution of pubic lice

• World-wide, including all developed nations.

Situations favoring pubic lice infestations

• Sexual activity with an infested partner.

Location of pubic lice infestations

• Typically on coarse hairs in the genital region of adolescents and adults.
• Occasionally in other locations such as eyelashes, eyebrows, and mustaches.
• NOTE: Pubic louse eggs are laid at the base of coarse body hairs.

Spread of pubic lice

• Primarily during sexual intercourse and other intimate activities.
• Potentially, but rarely, via infested bedding and toilet seats.

Symptoms of pubic louse infestation

• Itching and irritability.
• Excessive scratching, resulting in scab-covered sores and secondary bacterial and fungal infections.

Public health risk of pubic lice

• Severe nuisances and social embarrassment.
• Possibility of secondary infections associated with sores.
• NOTE: There is no evidence that pubic lice are vectors of disease agents.

Control of pubic lice

• Avoid sexual relations with infested partners.
• For specific chemical control, refer to CDC recommendations and see a physician.

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