by Amyn Kanjee, B.Sc. Pharm
Now that school is back in session, parents start to fear the notice regarding a potential head lice infestation. Head lice are parasites (Pediculus humanus capitis) that are typically found on human heads and spread by personal contact, or by sharing combs, brushes, caps, and other articles of clothing. Since children are in close proximity, and often share articles of clothing, head lice has become a common problem with preschool and schoolchildren.
The signs of head lice infestation include the feeling of something moving in the hair, an itchy head, and head sores. Typically head lice can spread very easily to other children as well as adult family members.
The first step is accurately diagnosing the infestation. This can be done by a health care professional or by actually seeing a louse in the hair/scalp. Treatment includes the use of over the counter medications called pediculicides. It is important to use an effective lice comb to remove all eggs (nits) as the pediculicides only kill the adult lice. Getting rid of eggs with a comb is imperative in ensuring complete elimination of head lice. Pediculicides treatment may need to be repeated in seven to ten days if the first treatment is ineffective.
Over the counter medications include chemicals such as Pyrethrins, Permethrins, Lindane and Dimethicone. For proper use and age restrictions please consult your pharmacist for more information, as some ingredients can be unsafe for use on children.
Treatment also includes washing or dry cleaning all clothes and linens that the infested person touched during the two days before treatment. Any articles of clothing that cannot be washed or dry cleaned can be placed in a plastic bag and sealed for two weeks; this will allow any nits that have survived to hatch and die as there will not be a food source available.
All combs and brushes should be soaked in rubbing alcohol, Lysol or washed with hot (130F, 55C) water and then placed in a bag and left in the freezer for two days. Floors and furniture should be vacuumed. Fumigant sprays are available but have to be used cautiously due to their toxic nature.
Preventative measures can also be taken, such as don’t share clothes, hats, and scarves; always notify the school if a child is infected.
