The PTA Parent

At back-to-school time, families are getting children ready to learn, which means staying healthy and not missing any days at school. As children return to class and also at peak times in the winter, head lice can be one problem that keeps students out of school.

Q: What are the most common symptoms of head lice?
A: Itching; small, red bumps (lice bites), infection accompanied by swollen glands (less common).

Q: How do we find out about cases of lice?
A: Parents can look closely at the children's scalp at home. Head-check programs in schools help detect head lice on children and thus prevent the spread of head lice to more children. PTAs can work with school nurses and community health experts to organize these head check programs.

Q: After getting rid of head lice, how do we prevent reinfestation?
A: Sources of possible infestation (bedding, furniture, hats, clothing, combs, and brushes) must be disinfected by laundering/dry cleaning, or sometimes discarding entirely. Items that cannot be run through the dryer (e.g., stuffed animals and toys) can be placed in a sealed, plastic bag for 10-14 days, and hair care items should be soaked in hot water for 15 minutes. A thorough vacuuming will get rid of lice or egg shells that are left behind.

Teach your child to avoid sharing combs, hair accessories, and hats. If your child has been infested with head lice, report it to their school immediately so other children attending will be less likely to have an infestation themselves.

As a proud sponsor of the PTA, Licefreee! and Tec Labs are pleased to offer financial and educational support to PTA leaders nationwide. The goal of this partnership is to provide the necessary materials and training to PTA members who are helping their schools identify and treat head lice outbreaks. Visit www.licefree.com for information.

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