Head louse is one variety of a number of different lice This type has chosen to make the scalp, and the hair on it, their home Head lice complete their life cycle in approximately one month and new generations multiply rapidly over and over again Years ago head lice was thought to be the mark of the unwashed, the very poor or the promiscuous, but statistics today show that head lice do not observe any class distinction, can infest anyone, and represent a problem which is rapidly gaining ground in all strata of our society.

Head lice is very common in schoolchildren and is easily transmitted from one host to another by direct contact with such personal items as combs, brushes, hats and bedding Infestation is localised predominantly on the scalp, though it sometimes involves the eyebrows, eye lashes and beard. Itching is severe and abrasion of the scalp sometimes with secondary bacterial infection may be seen.

In severe cases of infestation, there may be some swelling of the glands in the neck and under the arms In children a generalised, non-specific dermatitis is occasionally caused by lice, infesting only the scalp DIAGNOSIS Diagnosis is simple. One sign is a persistent itch of the scalp. When inspected nits may be found attached to the hair shafts. Nits are more frequently seen than lice. They are ovoid and greyish white in appearance, fixed or cemented to the hair shafts, sometimes in great numbers Unlike dandruff or scales they cannot be dislodged by brushing Nits mature in three to 14 days Lice themselves are very small and are seldom seen without the aid of a magnifying glass Close attention should be paid to the back of the head and the area behind the ears as lice tend to live mainly in these areas.

TREATMENT If lice infestation is confirmed, call or visit your physician or the health centre. If a child is infected, his or her school should be notified. Several non-prescription treatments are on the market to eliminate lice and their eggs. They can be purchased at Hamilton Health Centre or at your local pharmacy Each product has different directions which must be followed closely Retreatment of all infested persons in seven to 10 days is recommended to ensure complete elimination of the infestation. Please re-check your child after the second treatment All persons in the household should be examined for the presence of head lice.

All infested persons should undergo treatment All clothing, towels and bed linens used by all infested persons should be washed using very hot water! Dry clean all clothing and hats that cannot be washed It is suggested that all carpets, upholstery and mattresses should be vacuumed as well If necessary a pesticide with pyrethins as a main ingredient can be used If an aerosol is not preferred, Sevin Dust may be used Helmets should be treated, and also the car Schoolchildren who are infected need a clearance note from the Health Department before returning to school To help control this problem each family member should be checked once a week even without evidence of previous head lice Instruct your child not to borrow personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, clothing and towels from other people Lisa Mattis-Robinson School Nurse.