INFORMATION ON HEAD LICE

Lice are a fact of life in our community. Since your child may be exposed, it is important that you be aware of the symptoms, treatment procedure, and your role in the prevention of the spread of infestation. Head lice can affect anyone. Prompt, thorough treatment and reporting are essential to prevent epidemic outbreaks.

If you suspect your child has lice, notify the school office.

THE SYMPTOMS: Persistent itching is the most common symptom.

THE EVIDENCE: Adult lice, wingless crawling insects, are rarely seen. Look for the eggs (nits) which are glued to the hair shaft. Nits are tiny, gray-white, tear-drop shaped objects usually found in clusters above the ears, at the nape of the neck or crown of the head.  Compared to dandruff, which flicks off easily, nits adhere tightly to the hair shaft and have to be removed forcibly.

THE TREATMENT: Check with your physician or purchase a high quality lice-killing shampoo at the supermarket or drug store. No prescription is needed. Shampoo according to the directions on the package. KEEP SHAMPOO OUT OF EYES. Vinegar rinse (2 tbsp. white vinegar with 1 Qt. of hot water) or hair conditioner rinse may also help. Dry with towel. Remove all nits, using fingernails or special metal comb.

HOME HYGIENE: Examine all family members. If infested, treat promptly. Notify your child’s playmates who could be infested. NOTIFY SCHOOL OFFICE. Machine wash in HOT water all washable sheets, towels, pillowcases and washable clothing. For non-washable articles: take to dry cleaners or seal in plastic bag for 20 days. Vacuum rugs, upholstered furniture, automobile seats. Wash all surfaces in living and sleeping areas and bathrooms, especially chair backs. Check with your pharmacist for sprays for use on non-washables.

SCHOOL READMITTANCE: A child who is found to have head lice will be excluded from school immediately. Inspection by the school nurse or a certificate from the family physician is required to readmit the child to school. SMMUSD requires that students be nit free before being readmitted to school.

PREVENTION: Discourage children from playing with each other’s hair, combs, brushes, hats. Keep long hair braided or tied back. Brush and comb the hair thoroughly every day and shampoo at least once a week. Be alert for symptoms. Report all cases.