Is lice infestation a silent threat to children? Here’s what dermatology experts say

Lice infestation affects thousands of children every year and is generally easy to treat with proper care. However, doctors warn that negligence and delayed medical attention can aggravate the condition. An incident in Puri district has sparked renewed discussions on awareness, prevention, and timely healthcare.

A Class 6 schoolgirl from Puri district died following severe health complications allegedly linked to lice infestation, prompting medical experts to question delayed medical attention and stress the need for early intervention

The deceased girl, Lakshmipriya, daughter of Lingaraj Sahu, was a resident of Champagada Sahi. Reports suggest that she suffered from a serious scalp and skull infection, which eventually proved fatal. The incident has raised concerns about whether timely medical care could have prevented the tragedy.

Commenting on the case, Manogobind Srichandan, Head of the Department of Dermatology at Capital Hospital, said

Expert Raises Doubts Over Direct Link

“We are taught that lice infestation can cause local infection in the affected area, leading to eczema and severe itching. In extreme cases, excessive scratching may result in skin wounds and bleeding. However, there is no medical literature that links lice infestation directly to death. We are now hearing reports that a child has died due to lice infestation, but there is no clear evidence to support this claim. It has also been reported that the child was vomiting blood, which does not medically correlate with lice infestation. While there have been rare instances where severe infections have led to serious complications, septicemia is not commonly associated with lice infestation. It is difficult to understand how a simple lice infestation could progress to septicemia. Such a link is medically uncommon and requires thorough investigation,” said Manogobind Srichandan, Head of the Department of Dermatology, Capital Hospital.

Also Read: Puri girl succumbs to scalp, skull infection linked to prolonged lice infestation

Medical View on Lice Infestation

According to dermatologists, deaths caused directly by head lice are extremely rare. While complications can arise if infections are neglected, lice infestation is generally treatable and not life-threatening with timely care.

Prevention and Awareness

Doctors stress early treatment and hygiene. Avoid head-to-head contact, do not share personal items like combs or headphones, keep long hair tied, conduct regular checks, and avoid pesticide sprays indoors.

The incident underscores the importance of early medical attention and public awareness, reminding families that timely care can prevent avoidable complications from common conditions like lice infestation.