Scientists involved in the study have found that the insects are becoming immune to usual types of treatment often recommended by doctors and schools.
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According to the American Chemical Society, 25 states, including South Carolina, have lice populations that are now resistant to over the counter chemical treatments.
Pyrethoids are insecticides commonly used to keep mosquitoes at bay.
“It’s a really, really serious problem right now in the U.S.”, Yoon says.
The first report on the development came from Israel in the late 1990s. The research found that many lice have developed these mutations over decades, which affect their nervous system desensitising them to pyrethroids.
She said she has seen more lice cases from teenagers and young adults, attributing some instances to posing for pictures and “selfies” where heads are touching.
“It’s important for parents with elementary aged children to check their children’s hair”.
“If they’re using things like headbands or hats, they can spread it from one child to another”, he said. “So it’s not at all life-threatening, even if it’s very frustrating and uncomfortable”.
Lice are roughly one-tenth of an inch in length.
The study has used the molecular diagnostic tool developed by Dr. Yoon and his team to track and follow American lice, Philly reports. Results are still coming in from several states evaluated so far.
Almost all of the populations they tested showed high levels of gene mutations, making them more resistant to the active ingredients in lice shampoos.
In 25 of the states, lice samples had all three of these genetic mutations, making them the most resistant to treatment.
However, this measure will not be enough to solve the solution on the long run, because the lice will eventually develop resistance to the ivermectin as well. Why remains unclear. Data and conclusions presented at meetings are usually considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. These contain powerful agents such as benzyl alcohol, ivermectin, malathion and spinosad. The good news is head lice don’t carry disease.
Intrigued, Yoon followed up on the lead and contacted schools near the university to collect samples. This is due to other pesticides being banned by the government for fear that terrorists are using them to do harm on the human race. “Only pest control experts had access”, he said.
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Immediate treatment for lice is necessary.
