These parasites are most often spread by close physical or sexual contact. Crab lice may also be picked up through contact with infested bedding, clothing, or towels. An estimated 3 million people with new cases of the infestation are treated each year in the United States. The primary symptoms of infestation are small red sores and itching in the pubic area.
Scratching can spread the lice to other parts of the body.
Therefore, every effort should be made to avoid touching the infected area, although this may be difficult. Diagnosis Pubic lice are diagnosed easily because they are visible to the naked eye. They are pinhead size, oval in shape, and grayish, but they appear reddish-brown when full of blood from their host. Nits, the tiny white eggs, also are visible and usually are observed clinging to the base of pubic hair. Treatment Lotions and shampoos that kill pubic lice are available both over the counter and by prescription.