How far can nits jump?

Head lice, tiny insects that often afflict children, cannot jump. Rather, they walk from one head to another, reports Patient.co.uk. Nits are empty, white eggshells left when the head lice hatch.

Nits appear similar to dandruff and stick to hair. They are not easily brushed out. Lice also cling to hair but stay close to the scalp, which provides their food. Patient.co.uk notes that the eggs of head lice hatch after seven to 10 days, and it takes about 10 days for newborn lice to grow to adulthood and start laying eggs. Head lice die quickly when away from hair, and they cannot live in bedding or clothes. Most infestations come from friends or family who are not aware they are affected.