Pediculus humanus corporis
Pediculus humanus corporis
Pediculus humanus corporis (pronunciation: peh-DIK-yoo-lus HYOO-muh-nus KOR-poh-ris), commonly known as the body louse, is an insect that infests humans. The term is derived from the Latin words 'pediculus', meaning 'louse', and 'humanus corporis', meaning 'of the human body'.
Description
The body louse is a small, wingless insect that feeds on human blood. It is typically found in the clothing of infested individuals and moves to the body to feed. The body louse is the vector of several diseases, including typhus, trench fever, and relapsing fever.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of the body louse consists of three stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The female body louse lays eggs, known as nits, which hatch into nymphs. Nymphs mature into adults within a week.
Treatment
Treatment for body louse infestations typically involves improving personal hygiene and washing infested clothing and bedding. In severe cases, treatment may also include the use of insecticides.
Prevention
Prevention of body louse infestations primarily involves maintaining good personal hygiene and regularly washing clothing and bedding. In areas where body louse infestations are common, public health measures may also be necessary.
See Also
References
External Links
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