Lice are small, flat-bodied external parasites that feed on the blood vessels in the scalp. They live in the hair of humans and can be passed from person to person by direct contact or on shared objects such as combs, towels, barrettes, pillows or headphones. Lice are commonly seen in school children or in children's play groups where groups of children may play in close contact with one another. Having head lice is not necessarily evidence of poor hygiene or housekeeping.

If a lice infestation is suspected, every member of the family should be checked. The most common symptom is intense itching on the back of the head or neck. Head lice cannot survive without a human host. There is little evidence to support that they carry disease.

Follow these steps to treat head lice:
* Examine the scalp of every member of the family.
* Look for tiny white eggs (nits) on the hair shafts, near the scalp, at the nape of the neck, and behind the ears. Any family member with lice or nits must be treated.
* Treat with a head lice treatment. Some require prescriptions. Other medicated shampoos (Kwell, Scabene) and rinses (NIX) are available without a prescription. Note: Kwell should not be used on infants or toddlers.
* Remove all nits. Fine combs are provided with most lice treatment products. Gently comb the child's hair with the special nit removal comb. Many schools require students to be nit-free before they can return to class.
* Wash clothes, bed linens, and towels. Use hot water, then dry on the HOT cycle for at least 20 minutes. Items such as stuffed animals, headphones and hats that are not machine washable must be dry-cleaned or stored at room temperature in a tightly sealed plastic bag for at least TWO weeks.
* Soak combs, brushes, and other hair styling aids in hot water for at least 10 minutes. The water temperature should be at least 130 degrees F, or hotter.
* Vacuum everywhere. Make sure the rest of your home is louse-free. Vacuum carpets, pillows, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and car seats.
* Recheck for signs of nits in the hair two weeks after treatment.
* Check with your healthcare provider before retreating.

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