News from the Nurses: Head Lice Information

Since head lice are very common in school age children, the School Nurses wish to provide some helpful information and reminders. About 6 to 12 million active cases occur in the United States each year, especially in children ages 3 to 12.

Unfortunately, no one is immune to head lice. Every year the school nurses see several cases of head lice; sometimes more than one case in a classroom.

We would also remind parents to periodically check their child’s head for any signs of head lice, especially after sleeping away from home, dress-up play dates, and participation in sports when helmets or headgear is shared or after a trip to the movie theater. Looking through your child’s hair for any signs of lice or nits makes sense once a week or biweekly.

The School Nurses need your assistance in teaching your children to:

Avoid head-to-head contact at school and at home while playing with other children.
Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, scarves, bandanas, ribbons, barrettes, hair ties or bands, towels, helmets, or other personal care items with anyone else.
Keep their hats and scarves inside their coat sleeve or zipped inside their backpacks when not in use.
Encourage tying long hair back while at school.

We think by being proactive with our education and periodic checks we can work together to benefit our children and our families. Please do not hesitate to call your school nurse if you have questions or concerns.

Click here to contact your school nurse.