It's nearly that time of year again. When yellow school buses, cross guards and children carrying book bags abound. Therefore the Henry and Stark County Health Departments would like to remind area residents of the facts pertaining to head lice and how to treat it.
The head louse is one variety of a number of different lice. This type chooses the scalp and the hair to make its home. Head lice complete their life cycle in approximately one month and new generations multiply rapidly, over and over again.
Head lice are insects, flattened in shape from top to bottom; they have no wings and do not jump or fly. Their mouths include a set of six pairs of hooks by which they can attach themselves to the hair shaft. Transmission usually occurs from one infested person to another by direct contact with hair. Personal items such as combs, brushes, towels, and bedding are frequent sources of contamination. Another common source is clothing, such as hats, ribbons, scarves, topcoats and sweaters, all of which provide excellent transportation from one individual to another.
Although head lice are difficult to see, they are easy to recognize.
One sign is a persistent itch of the scalp, often accompanied by infected scratch marks. Closer inspection, aided by a hand lens will reveal small silvery eggs attached to the hair shaft.
Head lice infestations among children and adults are common. Lice are unbearably itchy and highly contagious; they require immediate, thorough treatment. Alas, there are no non-toxic products for killing lice, but there are effective over-the-counter products such as Nix and Rid.
But if you do use one of these preparations, follow the instructions exactly. Delouse clothing, bedding and combs according to directions; as well as, head and body. Remember to take all possible steps to protect other members of your household, and to notify people who might have been exposed through direct bodily or household contact, and to prevent re-infestation.
For more information, contact your family health care provider or your school nurse.
