Lice Prevention

I started to itch just thinking about this article. High on my list of creepy-crawly things that I don't even want to think about are head lice. Yuck. Since school is about to be back in session, and that is the time that outbreaks of lice most often occur, it is necessary to address this public health concern.

Lice are parasitic insects that can live on the head, body, and pubic regions of humans. They survive by feeding on human blood at least once daily, and cannot survive at room temperature without feeding. Head lice are spread by direct contact with infected people or surfaces, and there are some ways to decrease the chances that you, your family and your home will become infested with lice.

Teach your children to avoid head to head contact. This is the primary way in which head lice are spread at school. Leaning close to share a secret, games that involved your child's hair in close proximity to another child who may be infected, and sports can all put your child in danger of lice infestation.

Never share clothing, especially the sort that touches or is near the head. This includes hats, scarves, coats, and sporting helmets.

Never share hair care implements. This is a one way ticket to lice infestation. Combs, brushes and hair accessories should only be used by the person that owns them. If they do come into contact with an infected person, soak them in rubbing alcohol for at least an hour before resuming their use.

Avoid contact with infected persons. This means putting a hold on sleepovers and play-dates until the outbreak of lice is under control. It may also involve excluding your children from sports and other after-school activities for the time being.

If a person who is infested with head lice has been a guest in your home, wash clothing and linens that were in contact with the infested person in hot water and dry on high heat to kill the lice. These items can also be stored in a plastic bag for two weeks, according to the CDC, to starve out the lice. Vacuum all floors and furniture that the infected person came into contact with.

Have all members of your family use a shampoo that repels lice like Rosemary Repel Shampoo on a daily basis.

In some areas, in case of lice outbreaks, it is possible to keep your children out of school until the outbreak is under control. Arrange for classwork assignments to be completed at home until the lice outbreak is over.

If you and your family do become infested with lice, it is important to treat the infestation with products recommended by your family physician. Always supervise children during treatment for head lice since some of the most effective products are also toxic if ingested.

www.headlice.org
www.hsph.harvard.edu
www.cdc.org
www.licepreventionnews.com