Prevention and Treatment of Head Lice

Head lice are tiny insects (about 1/10 to 1/8 of an inch long) that live in human hair and must feed on human blood to live. They multiply rapidly, laying little white/silvery-colored oval-shaped eggs (called nits) that they glue to each strand of hair close to the scalp. Although it is hard to see head lice, a person can see the nits if they look closely. Nits are most often found on the hair behind the ears and at the back of the head and neck. The first sign of lice is a persistent itching of the head which is caused by the bite of the head lice.

Anyone can get head lice. It doesn't matter where they live or go to school, boy or girl. It doesn't mean the child is sick or unclean. It certainly doesn't mean they have bad parents.

Head lice are transmitted through direct contact: head to head contact during play, sports, or nap time or with shared items, such as pillowcases, combs, brushes, hats or other headgear, and clothing.

Treatment Resources:
Texas Department of State Health Services Management of Head Lice in School Settings and at Home