Head lice infestations can cause discomfort and social stigma among students, leading to absenteeism and disruptions in the learning process. By implementing effective policies for managing head lice, schools can create a healthier and more inclusive environment for student success and well-being.
Research has shown that head lice do not carry or spread diseases, and transmission primarily occurs from head-to-head contact, particularly among members of the same household. Children are more likely to get a head lice infestation from family members at home rather than from students at school. Based on that research and our belief that children should be in the classroom as much as possible each school day, the appearance of lice or lice eggs (nits) should not affect school attendance.
Collaboration and Communication: Suggested School Policies for Dealing With Head Lice
Schools and parents play complementary roles in ensuring effective management and support for students affected by head lice. While parents bear the primary responsibility for screening and treating head lice within their households, schools should promote awareness, facilitate communication, and provide resources to families.
Schools can empower parents with essential information and support while upholding the well-being of the school. It’s essential for schools to recognize the sensitive nature of head lice cases and to approach children and parents with empathy, confidentiality, and professionalism.
The Roles of Parents and Schools in Managing Head Lice
Schools with children in the K-6 grades should consider actively screening for head lice at the start of the school year and after major holiday breaks. If teachers, administrators, or school nurses become aware of lice or lice eggs (nits) on a student, they should confidentially notify that student’s parent immediately. The student should be allowed to remain in school until the end of the day.
It’s highly recommended that schools educate parents about head lice screening and treatment options. An administrator or school nurse should email instructions to the student’s parent on how to screen for, and treat, head lice, with a request that the parent screen the student’s head as soon as possible, upon arriving home.
If the parent finds lice or nits, they should ideally treat the infestation before returning the student to school. The administrator or school nurse should request that the parent inform the school of when and how any treatment was administered, with proof of treatment encouraged to be provided before the student returns. Credible lice treatment professionals will provide such certification.
When the student returns to school the next day, the school does not need to check to see if the student still has lice. No student should be required to be nit-free to be in school, particularly if the proof of treatment is from a professional lice treatment facility that guarantees all lice and nits have been either removed or are non-viable.
Lice Screening Instructions For Parents
- Prepare a Well-Lit Area: Place your child in a well-lit area to facilitate thorough inspection; use a flashlight if the room is not bright enough to see through to the scalp.
- Inspect the Scalp: Carefully examine all areas of the scalp, including behind the ears, the crown, and the back of the neck. Use a comb or applicator stick to part the hair and inspect for nits (eggs) and live lice. Nits are small, whitish-tan ovals attached to the hair shaft near the scalp.
- Identify Nits and Lice: Nits are typically about the size of a sesame seed and are firmly attached to the hair shaft. Adult lice may be more challenging to spot but are visible upon close inspection. They do not jump or fly but are adept crawlers.
- Stop Screening if Lice or Nits are Found: If you find any signs of lice or nits, discontinue screening and prepare for treatment.
Lice Treatment Options
Parents should consider the effectiveness, safety, and convenience of each treatment option when deciding on the best approach for their child. Additionally, it’s advisable to inform close contacts about potential exposure to head lice to prevent further spread within the community.
- Manual Removal with a Nit Comb: This method involves combing out lice and nits using a specialized nit comb. While effective, it requires patience and thoroughness to ensure all lice and eggs are removed and may take a few attempts.
- Over-the-Counter (OTC) and Prescription Products: Various OTC and prescription treatments are available, including shampoos and lotions containing pesticides like permethrin or pyrethrin. However, resistance to these chemicals has been reported, and efficacy may vary.
- Professional Lice-Removal Services: Lice removal clinics offer professional services utilizing advanced techniques and equipment for comprehensive lice treatment. These services can provide thorough and effective treatment solutions for families dealing with persistent infestations. Lice Clinics of America uses the only FDA-cleared medical device to eradicate head lice and guarantees the child will be effectively treated, lice-free, and in 1 hour, allowing the child to return to school with a certificate of proof of treatment the same day.
Effectiveness And Limitations Of Different Treatment Options
Manual removal with a nit comb, while time-consuming, can be successful if done meticulously, but can lead to missed nits or lice, leading to continued infestation. Conversely, over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription products containing pesticides may not always be effective due to lice resistance.
Alternatively, heated-air devices like the AirAllé offer a non-chemical treatment option with high efficacy rates (99.2%), dehydrating and eliminating lice and eggs. Professional lice removal services, equipped with specialized techniques and equipment, provide thorough and reliable treatment solutions for families dealing with persistent infestations.
Empowering Schools and Parents: Building Healthy Lice Management Policies
Schools should prioritize student well-being with clear policies for managing head lice, while parents should stay informed and communicate openly with schools and healthcare providers. Through shared knowledge and support, we can reduce stigma, promote understanding, and create a supportive environment where all students can thrive.
To continue developing your school’s lice policy, use our free support materials written by our experts, including Dr. Krista Lauer, LCA National Medical Director. They contain information to stay informed and prepared to help make schools lice-free.
