Head Lice

Head lice will be a problem from time to time in schools and it is important to work together as a school community to minimize the frustration caused by the problem.  You should routinely examine your child's head at least weekly.  Head Lice are little bugs; a full grown louse is about the size of a sesame seed. They crawl quickly when touched.  They lay lots of eggs (also known as nits). Nits are usually at the nape of the neck/behind the ears and close to the scalp.    Nits are oval; white or grey in color and about the size of a knot of thread. They are firmly attached to the hair shaft.  To determine whether or not you are seeing a nit try sliding it down the hair shaft using your fingers.  Nits will be difficult to move, whereas dandruff and other items slide easily.

If crawling lice or nits are found, all household members should be examined for crawling lice and nits every 2-3 days. Persons with live (crawling) lice or nits within a ¼ inch or less of the scalp should be treated.

To eliminate head lice successfully, it is very important that all treatment instructions and steps be carefully followed and completed.

Both over-the-counter and prescription products are available. You may wish to contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for additional information about which product they recommend.

Head lice can be a nuisance but they have not been shown to spread disease. Personal hygiene or cleanliness in the home or school has nothing to do with getting head lice.  For more information visit the School Health Services page by clicking here or contact  Joanna Stanek, RN, Supervisor of Nursing Services at (803) 476-8258 or jstanek@lexrich5.org.