The best prevention against head lice is to check your child every day at home.

• The most common symptom of infestation is intense itching on the back of the head and neck.
• The most common sign of infestation is the presence of nits (head lice eggs) in the hair.

They are small wingless, grayish tan insects that do not fly, hop or skip. Look for tiny white eggs or nits on the hair shafts, near the scalp especially at the nape of the neck and behind the ears.

If you find head lice or nits, don't panic.

• Check every member of the family.
• Use a head lice treatment if you see live lice.
• Remove all nits.  This is important to break the cycle of hatching and laying eggs.  Recheck family members daily.
• Clean-up the environment by washing clothes, bed linens and towels in hot water and dry on the hot cycle.  Items that are not washable should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks. Clean and soak combs and brushes in hot water for at least 10 minutes.  Vacuum carpets, upholstery, mattresses and car seats.
• Remind family members not to share items such as brushes, combs, hats and coats.
• If you have questions call your school nurse.

Click here to see what a head louse looks like

Click here to see what a nit looks like