AboutJohn Thai, MD Expertise Any questions on Infectious Diseases (All sexually transmitted infections as well as other diseases), Internal Medicine-Pediatrics, birth control methods, safe sex methods, procedures (i.e. cystoscopy, pap smear, HPV management techniques including laser and surgical treatments for anorectal warts, etc), HIV coinfections with hepatitis B/C, effects of illicit drug use, and general medical problems. All questions will be answered appropriately... non-biased, non-discriminatory, and open-minded.
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Expert: John Thai, MD Date: 4/24/2008 Subject: public lice
Question hiya, dyou know how fast a pubic louse can travel? can't find a ref on the net other than general "surprisingly fast" type statements. thanks.
Answer Hi
There is not an exact knowledge as to how fast they can travel. What we do know is how quickly they can reproduce and spread from one individual to another. Spreading pubic lice is due to close contact with another individual with pubic lice or using an item that was contaminated with pubic lice. The female loucse lays about 10 eggs a day for up to a month until it dies. The eggs hatch in 6-10 days. These eggs can survive up to 10 days away from the pubic hair - clothes, comb, etc. That's how it is spread quickly because it has a long sheltered life.
