With school back in session, problems with head lice usually peak in the fall. Kids share a lot with each other and that is how head lice are often spread from one person to another.
Head lice are tiny insects that live in people’s hair and feed on their blood. They may also be found in eyebrows and eyelashes. Lice glue their eggs to hair. Fortunately, lice die within two days without feeding so they can’t live very long away from your child’s head. Their eggs take six to nine days to hatch. It takes another seven or more days for the lice to become egg-laying adults.
Symptoms of head lice are:
- Intense itching of the scalp.
- Small red bumps on the scalp, neck and shoulders.
- Tiny, hard to remove, white eggs on the bottom of hairs.
Head lice are hard to see, so it is best to use a bright light and a magnifying glass. If head lice are found, treatment is recommended. Over the counter treatments are available. If these treatments don’t work, you should see a doctor.
To help prevent head lice:
a) Never share hair brushes, combs, hats, helmets, bedding or clothing.
b) Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on a hot cycle.
c) Dry clean items that can’t be washed.
d) Vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly.
e) Work with your school teachers and officials to help prevent the spread of head lice.
