Several cases of head lice have been reported this year at a variety of schools within the ASD, including Steller. Knowledge of a potential problem is key to prevention. As such, I thought it prudent to share a little information regarding head lice with our Steller families.
Head lice are parasitic insects found on the human head. Head lice are becoming increasing common in Alaska. They are transmitted directly from person to person or indirectly through objects such as hairbrushes, hats, scarves, clothing, bed sheets, and pillowcases. Lice are most commonly found on the scalp, behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the neck. If a louse falls off a person it generally dies within 24-48 hours.
Signs & Symptoms:
* Tickling feeling of something moving in hair.
* Itching, caused by an allergic reaction to the bite.
* Sores on the head caused by scratching. These sores can sometimes become infected.
* Visible lice or nits
Current research indicates that lice and their nits are becoming more resistant to available lice treatments. Re-infestation may occur if only one viable nit remains on the hair shaft. After treatment, nits are removed by scraping them off the entire length of the hair. Special fine-tooth combs are available, but it is common practice to “nit pick” through the hair after treatment to remove nits. Children with head lice must be treated and the nits must be removed from the hair to attend school.
To help prevent the spread of head lice, shampoo hair regularly with ordinary shampoo and water, dry hair with a hairdryer and periodically check your child’s head. When nits are found, lice must be suspected and treatment is required is required. Do not share combs, towels, hats, pillows, or clothing.
PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME FROM SCHOOL IF LICE OR NITS ARE PRESENT.
10 STEPS TO STAYING AHEAD OF LICE:
1. Watch for signs of head lice, such as frequent head-scratching. Anyone can get lice from another person or sharing hats, brushes, combs, etc.
2. Check all family members for lice and nits (lice eggs) at least once a week. (It helps to use natural light and a magnifying glass)
3. Treat only those family members who have lice. Buy a lice product at your drug store, the pharmacy section of your food store or call your doctor for a prescription.
4. Call your doctor first if you are pregnant, nursing or allergic to weeds, plants, etc. Never use a lice product on your baby!
5. Follow package directions carefully! Keep the eyes covered with a washcloth.
6. Remove all nits (which will stay on the hair after treatment.) This is essential! You do this with a special lice comb, scissors or your fingernails.
7. Wash sheets and recently worn clothing in hot water and dry in a hot dryer. Combs and brushes may be soaked in hot (not boiling) water for 10 minutes.
8. Vacuuming is the safest and best way to control lice on mattresses, rugs, furniture, and stuffed animals.
9. Continue to check head every day for 2-3 weeks to make sure head lice are gone. Regular checking is the best prevention.
10. When you find a case of lice, tell others! Call your child’s school or daycare. Notify neighborhood parents and parents of children your child has recently been in contact with.
For more information, questions, or concerns feel free to call me @ 742-4963. You can also contact your health care provider or check out a few web-based resources:
www.headlice.org
www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/lice/default.htm
www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/common/lice.html
Wendy A. Williams, RN
School Nurse