Weekly News From the Nurse 27 September 2024
September marks National Head Lice Prevention Month. In the past, students diagnosed with head lice faced immediate exclusion from school, often accompanied by a noticeable stigma. Today, however, educational institutions follow updated guidelines from the National Association of School Nurses. According to these guidelines, the management of head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) should not interfere with the educational process. Consequently, practices such as classroom screenings, forced absences for lice or nits, and broad notifications of lice cases are no longer standard procedures.
Understanding key facts about head lice is essential:
- Head lice are parasitic insects that primarily infest the scalp.
- Symptoms include itching, a tickling sensation, the feeling of movement on the scalp, or sores.
- Both prescription and over-the-counter medications are effective in treating head lice infestations.
- Other symptoms may include irritability and sleeplessness.
- Head lice are most prevalent among preschool and elementary-aged children, as well as their families.
- The primary mode of transmission is head-to-head contact.
- Less commonly, lice can be spread through contact with infested clothing, hats, or brushes.
For comprehensive information on prevention and management of head lice, please visit CDC's head lice page.
