HEAD LICE
WHAT ARE HEAD LICE?
Head Lice are tiny insects that live close to the scalp where the female louse lays her eggs. They stay glued to the hair, so as the hair grows they move further from the scalp. When the eggs hatch the empty egg cases (known as nits) remain attached to the hair. You will be able to see these more easily than the lice.
HOW DO WE CATCH THEM?
The only way is by touching heads with someone who has lice. This may be an adult or a child. Head lice are happy to live on any scalp whether the hair is clean or dirty, long or short.
HOW CAN I HELP PREVENT THEM?
Check your children’s hair weekly for any signs of head lice (perhaps after hair washing). Combing with a fine toothcomb at bedtime helps prevent the spread of head lice.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE HEAD LICE?
Do not feel ashamed or embarrassed – anyone can catch them.
Ask your Pharmacist or Doctor for the recommended treatment (ordinary shampoos will not kill the lice) and follow the instructions carefully.
Tell your Pharmacist or Doctor if anyone to be treated is
Make sure that everyone who is infected is treated.