| Pediculosis: aka Head Lice |
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Pediculosis (head lice) is a frequent occurence, particularly in elementary school. It is characterized by itching of the scalp as the result of live lice in the hair or ova (nits) attached to the hair shafts. Lice do not spread any diseases but infestation is an unpleasant nuisance. Pediculosis is spread by direct contact with infested persons, their clothing, or personal articles.
Students who have live lice found on their heads must be excluded from school until they are treated and free of live lice. Please save the box of the treatment used to give to the school nurse as proof of treatment.
Use a lice treatment on the hair recommended by your pharmacist or doctor. All household members should be screened and treated if necessary. The school nurse is available to examine any household members upon request.
Remove nits from the hair. This is time consumming but necessary. You can use a special nit comb or your fingers. Nit combing is easier if the hair is dry or slightly damp. Work in a well lit area and work through a small section of hair at a time so you don't miss any nits.
After treatment and nit removal, check the child's head every day for two weeks to ensure that there are no live lice.
Clean personal things that the person with head lice has worn or used. Soak combs and brushes in hot water with a disinfectant for one hour. Wash clothing in hot water. Items that cannot be washed should be placed in a sealed plastic bag for for 14 days. Vacuum furniture, carpets, car seats, and mattresses.
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