dept

Student Health Services

 

Headlice

 

Cause:Pediculus capitis, the headlouse w/c infests the hair on the head.

Signs and Symptoms:Early signs may be irritation and itching of the scalp.
1. Scratching - People with head lice scratch their heads to relieve the itching caused by the insect bite. Tiny bite marks may be present on scalp and neck.
2. Live Lice - Tiny brownish-grey crablike insects which move swiftly on the scalp.
3. Eggs(nits) - Tiny white eggs glued to the base of hair shafts, particularly at the back of the neck and around the ears. Eggs sometimes resemble dandruff, but will not fall off and are not easily removed by shampooing or combing the hair.

Incubation Period: The eggs of lice hatch in a week and sexual maturity is reached in approximately 8-10 days after hatching.

Mode of transmission: The lice are spread by direct contact with an infected person, and by indirect contact with infested personal articles such as combs, brushes and clothing.

Preventive Measures: Please remind your child not to borrow and/or lend hairbrushes, combs, barretts, hats, hairbands, etc. Lice are spread by direct contact from one person to another. It is not a sign of uncleanliness.

To prevent further reinfestation, clothing and bed linens should be disinfected by washing in very hot water (desired temperature 130F) for approximately 10 minutes. All carpet, upholstery, and mattresses should be vacuumed thoroughly.