Pubic lice, an insect that is parasite of the human body is also known as crab louse. It lives in areas of the human that are covered in course hair and feeds entirely on blood. It is popular on pubic hair but can also be found underarms, on eyelashes, beard and moustache. Its body structure is smaller than that of hair and body lice with a more rounded shape. Pubic lice don’t survive long from the warmth and humidity of a human body.
Spread of pubic lice
The pubic lice lay eggs usually on the hairs of genitals and perianal region. The life span is of 3 days and the adult feeds on blood up to five times a day. It is spread majorly through sexual intercourse with infested people. Other modes of transmission are; use of shared towels, beds and clothing with infected people. Bodily touch such as hugging also enables transmission.
Symptoms
Itching and inflammation caused by louse saliva
Black powder on underwear
Blue grey appearance on area of feeding
Prevention
Not sharing personal effects like towels
Removal of pubic hair
Treatment
Pubic lice is usually treated with insecticide creams, lotions or shampoos on the affected area
In severe cases, treatment of the whole body is recommended.