One of the most common questions pertaining to parasitic insects on the body is if there is a difference between them. Considering that they are all from the same general species, there are few differences between both crabs and lice. With that being said, it is important to know these differences as there are specific treatment methods associated with each type of parasitic insect. If you believe that you have been affected by either crabs or lice, it is imperative that you speak with a medical practitioner prior to self-diagnosis.
What are the Species of Human Lice?
Lice can inhabitate any living creature but there are only three types of lice that are known to live on humans. Head louse (pediculus humanus capitis) are commonly known within schools and amongst children, you have most likely come into contact with head louse at one point in your lifetime. Body louse and clothing louse is known as pediculus humanus corporis and they inhabit clothing and other areas of the body aside from the pubic region and the head. Finally, crabs/pubic louse, also known as pthirus pubis reside within the pubic hair of an individual. The most common method of transmission of pubic lice is via sexual intercourse.
How are Lice Transmitted?
Lice and crabs are generally transmitted by close person-to-person contact. With that being said, animals such as dogs and cats do not play a vital role in the transmission of human lice. Unlike the majority of speculation, lice are not transferred from one person to the next via hopping, jumping, or flying, in fact, they crawl.
What are Body Lice?
As previously mentioned, body lice reside on parts of the body excluding pubic hair. In comparison to crabs, body lice are known to spread a wide variety of diseases as they feed off of human blood. These lice lay live eggs on clothing and constantly move to different areas on the skin to feed. Much like other types of lice, body lice are spread by close person-to-person interactions but they generally prefer individuals with poor hygiene.
What are Crabs?
Crabs are a type of lice that are generally transmitted via sexual contact. These lice prefer coarse hair and although they are most commonly noticed in the pubic region of an infected individual, they also enjoy living in armpit hair or eyebrow hair. Unlike body lice, crabs are less likely to spread disease – if at all. Luckily, there are various over-the-counter medications available for individuals who are suffering from crabs.
