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10 Helpful Hints

  1. Watch for signs of head lice, such as frequent head scratching.
     
  2. Check all family members for lice/nits once a week. It helps to use natural light and magnifying glass.
     
  3. If lice are found treat your child with a lice product from the drugstore (ask you Dr. or pharmacist) Treat only the 
    family members with nits/lice.
     
  4. Consult with your Dr. if you are pregnant or nursing and never use a lice product on a baby or child under 2 years of age.
     
  5. Follow package directions carefully. Use the product over a sink (not in tub or shower) Cover eyes with a washcloth.
     
  6. After using  treatment, removal of nits (they stick to hair even after treatment) is the most important step. Use metal 
    nit-comb to pry nits from hair. This is essential! Hair conditioner may make this easier.
     
  7. Wash sheets and recently worn clothing in hot water and hot dryer. Combs and brushes may be soaked in hot (not 
    boiling) water for 10 minutes.
     
  8. Vacuuming is the safest and best way to control lice on mattresses, rugs, furniture and stuffed toys. Chemical sprays 
    are NOT  necessary.
     
  9. Continue to comb hair out to check for remaining nits for 2-3 weeks to make sure head lice are gone. This is tedious 
    work, but it is the best way to control lice. Tip: It is easier to comb and check hair when it is wet with some conditioner 
    left in.
     
  10. When you find a case of lice, tell others.  Kindly call your child's school and daycare. Notify neighborhood parents and parents of children your child has been in contact with (especially sleepovers) as that is the more common scenario for transmission.  Also encourage your child to avoid head to head contact with others.