Outbreak of head pediculosis during SFINCSS-99 isolation experiment

This short case report presents the development and treatment of a head lice outbreak during a space simulation experiment. The confinement experiment was conducted from July 1999 to March 2000 at the State Research Center of the Russian Federation Institute for Biomedical Problems in Moscow. Following a symptom period of up to 9 wk before diagnosis and treatment, 3 wk of treatment were required to remove all nits from those infected. Recommendations are made with regard to prevention of such infections during space missions. Treatment altered performance and comfort of crews, took time out of other duties, and even affected relations between crewmembers. The case is made for the development of a public health agenda in space research and medical space programs.