Do Lice Jump?

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The Short Answer

NO. Lice do not jump. Lice only have the ability to crawl, which means that they can only be transferred via direct contact between people.

 

The Full Explanation

The reason that lice (unlike fleas) cannot jump is simply due to their anatomy. A louse has short, stubby legs that limit the bug's speed and range of motion. Because they can only crawl, lice can only be transferred by coming into direct contact with another host. Most commonly, transferal comes in the form of head-to-head contact at school. In some cases, lice can also be transferred via shared items such as hats, scarves, or pillows. Although lice cannot jump, their hooked legs provide a strong grip on hosts - making them extremely hard to remove.

 

Fleas on the other hand have long, grasshopper-like legs that allow them to move swiftly and to jump from host to host. Fleas do not have the same fierce gripping strengths as lice, but they are very hard to catch. Luckily fleas generally do not live on human hosts, but they can still jump onto and bite humans.

flea legs for jumping

 

Still want added protection?

 

Lice Repellent Spray

When contact with other kids is inevitable, it is important to use a proven lice repellent product. LiceGuard Lice Repellent Spray is a safe and effective way to prevent your child from getting lice during an outbreak. A few sprays of our concentrated non-toxic solution provides 24-hour protection from lice. It contains no pesticides and is made with natural ingredients that leave behind a pleasant scent. One bottle of Lice Repellent Spray is enough to treat one person for up to 60-days.

Learn More

 

For more in depth information about lice and how to treat them, visit our Facts of Lice series. To learn more about our non-toxic lice treatment and prevention solutions, click on the link below.

 

Learn More

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