Parasites

Parasites are organisms that grow, feed, and shelter on or in inside another organism (referred to as a host), while contributing nothing to the survival of that organism.

• Parasite MUST HAVE a host to survive

• Parasites can live on or inside of humans and animals. They also can be found in food, on plants and trees, and in water.

• Humans can acquire internal parasites by eating fish or meat that has not been properly cooked.

External parasites that affect humans by way of the skin include: ticks, lice, fleas, and mites.

Services should never be performed on a customer with visible signs of a parasitic infestation. Always refer the client to a physician for treatment.

The Two Types of Parasites commonly encountered in the salon spa, and barbershop:

• Head lice is a type of parasite responsible for contagious diseases and conditions. One condition caused by an infestation of head lice is called pediculosis capitis.

• Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite, which burrows under the skin.

Contagious diseases and conditions caused by parasites should only be treated by a doctor. Contaminated countertops, tools, and equipment should be thoroughly cleaned and then disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant for the time recommended by the manufacturer or with a bleach solution for 10 minutes.