Now that school is back in session, your kids are more likely to be exposed to a lot of new germs, including the dreadful parasite known as head lice.
According to the MayoClinic.com head lice is the second most common communicable disease affecting schoolchildren.
Head lice are are tiny, wingless, parasitic insects that live among human hairs and feed on small amounts of blood from the scalp.
When some people hear the word “head lice” they think only those with poor hygiene or those who live in an unkept living environment can get head lice. Well in fact, that is not the case at all. Head lice is a very common problem, especially for kids ages 3 to 12. Studies have shown girls are more apt to develop head lice then boys (kidshealth.org).
Lice Facts
- Lice aren’t dangerous
- Lice don’t spread disease
- Lice aren’t transmitted by pets
- Lice ARE contagious
- Lice can cause irritation or infection to the scalp with excessive scratching
- Lice can be treated with over-the-counter and prescription medication
How Head Lice Is Spread
- Close Personal Contact- (children or family members that are in close contact with one another) This is the most common way head lice is spread
- Sharing Personal Belongings (combs, brushes, hats, etc.)
- Group settings (schools, childcare, camps, work, etc.)
- Home furnishings (couch, blankets, pillows, etc.)
Did You Know?
Head lice can’t jump or fly but they have specially adapted claws that allow them to crawl and cling firmly to hair (EWW!)
Signs and Symptoms of Head Lice
- Intense itching of the scalp- some people, if this is their first infestation, don’t experience any itching
- Adult lice and nymphs(baby lice) on scalp- the best place to look is behind your ears and/or down your neck
- Lice eggs on your hair shaft- Lice (nits) slightly resemble dandruff but lice can’t be easily brushed out of hair
When to see a Doctor
You can usually get rid of head lice without having to see a doctor. Try using a nonprescription shampoo that is specifically formulated to kill lice. If the nonprescription shampoo still does not work or if you scratch your head so hard you get an open wound infection, see a doctor.
If your child is two years old or younger, you can NOT use medicated lice treatments. You will need to remove the nits and lice by hand. Learn more about Wet Combing.
Treatments
- Wash and dry all bed linens and clothing that have been recently worn by anyone in your home who may have been infested with head lice- make sure you put the washing cycles on HOT!
- For items such as; linens, stuffed animals, etc. that can’t be washed or dry cleaned, place in an airtight bag for up to two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets and furniture.
- Accessories, such as; combs, barrettes, hair ties, etc. soak in hot water for at least an hour or dispose of the items all together.
Prevention
Although head lice is hard to prevent due to individuals being in close environments on any given day, tell your kids to try and avoid head to head contact with one another and tell your kids not to share their personal belongings with others.
In efforts to prevent the spread of head lice this school season, do your part and share with others the knowledge you gained from reading this article. Stay proactive my friends!
Sources:
http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/common/head_lice.html
http://www.bing.com/health/article/mayo-126626/Head-lice?q=head+lice
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