What do I do if I discover my child has head lice?

Head lice is a problem in communities nationwide. Anyone can get head lice and it is not a reflection of cleanliness or socioeconomic status. Lice actually prefer clean scalps and spread simply by close contact with an affected child, their clothing, or combs, brushes, and hair accessories.

Please note the following tips for staying "ahead" of lice.

Watch for signs of head lice, such as frequent head scratching or small white eggs (nits) attached to the hair shafts. Nits are most often located at the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and at the crown. They may look like dandruff but cannot be removed with the flick of a finger.

If signs of lice are present, you may buy an over-the-counter pediculicide shampoo at the pharmacy and use as directed on the box. Note: If using the commercial product Nix, do not shampoo first with a shampoo/creme rinse combination.

Remove ALL nits. Part the hair in one-inch sections, removing all the white oval eggs. If they won't comb out with a special nit removal comb, affected hairs can be snipped off with safety. It's important to be thorough because the eggs that aren't removed are likely to hatch and start the infestation over again. Vinegar has been reported to help "loosen up" the nits.

Wash and dry all bedding, pajamas, clothes, etc. in hot water and dry on a hot cycle for at least 20 minutes. Items not machine washable must be dry cleaned or stored at room temperature in tightly sealed plastic bags for at least 2 weeks. Items such as helmets and headphones should be similarly stored.

Soak combs, brushes, etc. in hot water (at least 130 degrees F) for 5 to 10 minutes.

Vacuum everywhere-carpets, pillows, mattresses, upholstered furniture, car upholstery, and throw away the vacuum bag. Also, an iron can be used on mattresses and furniture.

When you find a case of lice, please notify the school, daycare center, and baby-sitter so all other children can be checked and precautions taken.

Once all these steps are complete, children can return to school by:

Returning to the nurse's office with a parent or guardian to have their head's rechecked for lice and/or nits. ALL nits must be removed before being allowed to return to school. This is a York County School Division policy.

Bring proof of treatment (i.e. empty shampoo bottle).

Retreat 7-10 days later, and continue to monitor hair daily for nits and lice.

Please call the clinic with any questions at 898-0375.

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