Head lice are very common in childhood and are easily transmitted by using a hat, comb, headphones or brush of an infected person. They are also transmitted by close contact with an infected person. They do not indicate poor hygiene and have become very common epidemics among school children. They only live on humans and cannot live for more than 72 hours off the human body.

• The findings of head lice include nits which are small white eggs that are firmly attached to the hairs closer to the scalp. They cannot be shaken off and are very difficult to pull off with your fingers. Sometimes, the lice themselves are seen which are gray bugs that move quickly. The scalp is very itchy and occasionally there is a rash. They tend to favor the back of the scalp or above the ears.

• New eggs appear after recent treatment
• A rash is present that does not clear within a week of treatment
• Skin sores spread or look infected

Antilice shampoo. There are a few over-the-counter products available, such as Nix or Rid. Use as directed on the package. Talk to your physician if these have failed to discuss other treatments.

Removing the nits. This step is very important to help insure that they will not recur. After shampooing, you may use a special comb (usually comes with the shampoo) to remove the nits or they may be removed by hand. Check the hair daily after treatment and remove any nits that are found.

Cleaning the house. After treatment, the house should be vacuumed, especially the area where the nits were removed and the child's bedroom. All sheets and bedding should be washed in hot water. Any items that cannot be washed may be tied up in a plastic bag for 2 weeks to insure that the nits will die. Combs and brushes should be soaked for 1 hour in a solution made from the antilice shampoo. Be sure to check all family members for nits and treat any with symptoms of itching scalp or visible nits.

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