Pharmacist Blog – October 2013
Your child came home from school today with a letter from the principle. You open the note and the words “HEAD LICE” jump off the page in front of you!
Some facts you need to know:
– Lice are tiny bugs, ranging from light to dark brown in colour
– You should see them moving or crawling on your child’s head
– Nits are the eggs. They are white-ish, attached to the hair shaft (within 3cm from the scalp), and must be pulled out of the hair; they cannot be blown away
– Contrary to popular belief, lice do not jump or fly! You need to have direct contact with infected hair to transfer – playing close together, sharing beds or other items such as hats, brushes and clothes make your child vulnerable
If you get the dreaded “lice notice” from school, treat right away!
– Nix or R&C are still the most recommended products
– Non-insecticide alternatives include Zap, Resultz, and Nyda
– It is very important to follow the directions carefully
– Comb through hair and remove any remaining nits daily
– Wash all clothing/bedding/stuffed animals/towels that could be infected
– Repeat treatment in 7-10 days
Other preventative measures include:
– Combing and checking hair every night – especially near neck and ears
– Tie up long hair into ponytail(s) or braid(s)
– Tea tree oil (in its pure form or in shampoo) can also help
– Wash clothing and bedding regularly
