HEAD LICE Tollesboro Elementary School Jessie Holt/Physical Education and Health

What are head lice?  Head lice are parasitic insects that live in the hair and scalp of humans.  Head lice develop in three forms: nits, nymphs, and adults.

What are head lice?  Requires human blood to grow, develop and lay eggs (nits)  Cannot survive more than a day without a blood meal  They do not have wings, so they cannot fly  They do not jump, but move very quickly on the scalp making them difficult to find

What are head lice?  Does not discriminate among socioeconomic groups  More commonly found in children of preschool and early elementary age

Signs and Symptoms  Some experience itching from an allergic reaction from the bites  Irritation from sores caused by bites  Irritability

How do you get Head Lice?

Diagnosis of Head Lice  Head lice can be found anywhere in the hair  Easiest to locate on the scalp and behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the neck

Treatments  Rid, Pronto, Nix  If live lice persist following treatment with over-the-counter products, parents should discuss with the family doctor

Treat the household  To kill lice and nits, machine wash all washable clothing and bed linens that the infested person touched during the 2 days before they were diagnosed. Wash clothes and linens in the HOT water cycle (130 F). Dry items on the hot cycle for at least 20 minutes.  Dry clean clothing that is not washable (coats, hats, scarves, etc.). OR  Seal all non-washable items (clothing, stuffed animals, comforters, etc.) in a plastic bag for 2 weeks.  Soak combs and brushes for 1 hour in rubbing alcohol or Lysol, or wash with soap and hot water.  Vacuum the floor and furniture. Do not use lice sprays; they can be toxic if inhaled.

Exit Slip  Name THREE ways you can prevent the spread of head lice.  HAVE A GREAT SCHOOL YEAR!