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You might have been told how to treat head lice -- applying doses of prescription-only pediculicide, repeadedly washing everything and everyone in the house in super-heated water, among other drastic measures. But what about reducing your chances of bringing home lice in the first place?
You know what they say: "an ounce of lice prevention..." (Or something to that effect.) Here are some tips to help you and your family avoid a dreaded lice infestation.
The first thing you should know is that lice might be a terrible hassle, but they are not life-threatening. Although finding one creeping along the scalp of your beloved baby might give you the heebie-jeebies, it won't make anyone sick. So, while lice are work-inducing -- and unpleasant, to say the least -- they won't put you or your family in danger.
Encourage your kids to avoid sharing things that have been on or near another child's head, including hairbrushes, combs, hats, scarves, towels, helmets, pillows, sleeping bags, etc.
Teach kids to hang up their coat and hat on an individual hook when they get to school, instead of throwing them in a pile of classmates' clothing.
Regularly clean things your child's head has direct contact with, such as car seats, pillows, headphones, etc.,
Review head lice pictures to help you understand what you are looking for in your child's hair, including live lice and nits.
Check your child for nits and live head lice at least once a week. Although you can find them anywhere, lice are most often found at the back of the head, near the neck and behind the ears.
Recognize the symptoms of head lice, which include itchy scalp and small red bumps or sores on the back of your child's neck and scalp.
Has your family ever had head lice? Please share here.
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