Mutations in GluCl associated with field ivermectin-resistant head lice from Senegal

The head lice, Pediculus humanus capitis, are obligate blood-sucking parasites that live exclusively in the scalp region of humans [1,2]. They represent one of the most prevalent parasitic infestations with major economic and social concerns throughout the world [3]. Body lice are the main vectors of at least three human pathogens: Rickettsia prowazekii, the agent of epidemic typhus; Bartonella quintana, the agent of trench fever; and Borrelia recurrentis, the agent of relapsing fever. Currently, head lice are not considered to be vectors for human pathogens.

Source: International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents - July 25, 2018 Category: Drugs & Pharmacology Authors: Nadia Amanzougaghene, Florence Fenollar, George Diatta, Cheikh Sokhna, Didier Raoult, Oleg Mediannikov Source Type: research