What to do if your child comes home with head lice:
Don't panic. Anyone - adult or youngster - can get head lice. Head lice are passed from person to person by direct contact or on shared items (combs, brushes, towels, etc.) It has nothing to do with cleanliness and does not reflect poorly on you as a parent. The problem is easily managed. Just follow the instructions below:


1. Check every member of the family
Look for tiny white eggs (nits) on hair shafts near the scalp, especially at the nape of the
neck and behind the ears. Head lice are small grayish-tan insects without wings. Any family member with lice or nits must be treated.


2. Use an effective head lice treatment.
Several are available without a prescription. The creme rinse requires just one application and protects against reinfestation for up to two weeks. Follow package directions carefully. Ask your physician or pharmacist for more information.

3. Remove all nits which will stay on the hair after treatment.
This is essential. You can use a special lice comb after treatment.

4. Wash clothes, bed linens, and towels.
Use hot water and dry at least 10 minutes.

5. Soak combs
Items should be allowed to soak for at least 10 minutes

6. Vacuum everywhere
To make sure the rest of your home is louse free, you should vacuum carpets, pillows, mattresses, upholstered furniture, stuffed animals and even car seats.

Head lice cannot survive without a human host. They cannot survive on family pets. Choose an effective treatment, use as directed, and perform the steps listed above to help eliminate head lice from your home and to help prevent their spread. Check heads every day for 2-3 weeks. Regular checking is the best prevention. Tell others when you find a case of lice. Call the school and all close friends.