Community identification
Body Louse
Pediculus humanus humanus
- Order & Family
- Order: Phthiraptera, Family: Pediculidae
- Size
- 2.5 to 3.5 mm
Natural Habitat
Clothing and bedding of humans; moves to skin to feed
Diet & Feeding
Feeds exclusively on human blood multiple times a day
Behavior Patterns
Lives and lays eggs (nits) in the seams of clothing; only moves to the host's body to feed; typically associated with crowded or unsanitary conditions
Risks & Benefits
Significant health risk as they are primary vectors for diseases such as epidemic typhus, trench fever, and louse-borne relapsing fever. Can cause intense itching and skin rashes.