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Talk About Nitpicking!
Head lice are tiny, gray bugs. They are 2 to 3 millimeters long. They move fast and are difficult to see. Head lice live in the hair and bite the scalp to suck blood.
They attach their white eggs, called nits, to the hair. Unlike dandruff, nits can’t be shaken off. The nits are easier to see than the lice because they are white and very numerous.
The back of the neck is the favorite area for lice and nits. Lice and nits may cause your child’s scalp to itch and have a rash.
What is the cause?
Head lice live only on human beings. They can be spread quickly by using the hat, comb, or brush of an infected person, or simply by close contact. Anyone can get lice despite good health habits and frequent hair washing. The nits (eggs) normally hatch into lice in about 1 week.
How long does it last?
After you use anti-lice shampoo most lice and nits will be killed. If the lice come back, it usually means your child has had contact with another infected person or the shampoo wasn’t left on for 10 minutes. There are no lasting problems from having lice and they do not carry other diseases.
How can I take care of my child?
Cleaning the house
Contagiousness
Check the head of everyone else living in your home. If lice or nits are seen, or they start to get an itchy scalp rash, they should be treated with anti-lice shampoo. Bedmates of children with lice should also be treated. If in doubt, have the person checked. Your child can return to school after the first treatment with the shampoo. Remind your child not to share combs and hats.