Pediculus humanus corporis
(parasite)

Pediculus humanus corporis is a wingless insect belonging to the family of Pediculidae (human lice).

Its bites may cause skin reactions (small, itching swellings), particularly in underwear regions. Additionally, body lice may transmit the pathogens Rickettsia prowazekii (epidemic typhus), Bartonella quintana (five-day fever), and Borrelia recurrentis (epidemic relapsing fever).

The main transmission path is direct or indirect contact with contaminated persons or objects.

For a successful inactivation of parasites, specific disinfectants effective against parasites are required.