How long does it take for lice to starve in infested items when not in use?

The time it takes for lice to starve in infested items when not in use is approximately 2 weeks. This duration is critical for understanding the lifecycle and survival mechanisms of lice. Lice feed on blood, which they obtain from their human hosts. When separated from a host, they can only survive for a limited amount of time because they rely on this blood meal for nourishment.

After about 2 weeks, lice are unable to survive without feeding, making it essential to consider this timeframe when addressing infestations. Practically, this knowledge is useful in implementing control measures and providing guidance to those dealing with lice infestations, as items that have been unused for at least this duration can be considered less of a risk for harboring live lice.