Head Lice: What You Need to Know

As the new school year approaches in Australia, parents often brace themselves for the possibility of head lice. These tiny, stubborn insects are a common issue among school-aged children. With proper knowledge and action, you can manage and prevent infestations effectively.

What Are Head Lice?

Head lice also known as nits, are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp, feeding on human blood. Their eggs, called nits, attach firmly to hair shafts, making them difficult to remove.

Signs and Symptoms

• Itching: Caused by an allergic reaction to lice bites.

• Tickling Sensation: A feeling of movement in the hair.

• Sores: Excessive scratching can cause sores, which may become infected.
  

Diagnosis

To check for head lice:

1. Inspect the Hair: Use a bright light to look for live lice and nits, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck.

2. Wet Combing: Apply conditioner to wet hair and use a fine-toothed comb to search for lice and nits. Wipe the comb on a tissue after each stroke to check for evidence.
   

Treatment Options

1. Wet Combing: Apply conditioner and comb the hair thoroughly every 2-3 days for at least two weeks until no lice are found.

2. Chemical Treatments: Over-the-counter shampoos and lotions containing insecticides can be effective. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully and repeat the treatment after 7-10 days to address newly hatched lice.
   

Myths Debunked

• Myth: Head lice prefer dirty hair.

  Truth: Lice are attracted to human blood, not cleanliness. They infest clean and dirty hair alike.

• Myth: Lice can jump or fly.

  Truth: Lice cannot jump or fly. They spread through direct head-to-head contact.

• Myth: Pets can carry lice.

  Truth: Head lice only live on humans and cannot survive on pets.
  

Advice from Health Departments

• NSW Health Department:

  "Bed linen, hats, clothing, and furniture do not harbor or transmit lice or nits. There is no benefit in washing them as a treatment option. Nits and lice only live on the human head and quickly dehydrate and die if removed from the scalp."

• QLD Health Department:

  "Nits can only live for a short time away from the scalp, and the only means of transmission is by direct head-to-head contact. Research has shown lice don’t survive in hats, helmets, toys, furniture, or carpets. However, avoid sharing hairbrushes to reduce the risk of eggs attached to hairs caught in the bristles."
  

Prevention Tips

• Avoid head-to-head contact during play or activities.

• Do not share hats, hairbrushes, or hair accessories.

• Tie back long hair to reduce the likelihood of infestation.

• Regularly check children’s hair, especially during the school term.
  

Final Thoughts

Head lice are a nuisance, but they are manageable with the right approach. Routine checks and prompt treatment can help prevent the spread. If you need assistance or advice, contact us here at Highfield & District Medical Centre, we're here to help