Thursday, November 10, 2022

Head Lice

A message from Nurse Hadley:

Head lice in schools almost completely disappeared when there was social distancing.  As we return to a more normal school year, we are seeing head lice in most schools.  

Lice outbreaks are common in school-aged children. Even the cleanest child can become infested. It is not a sign of poor health habits or being dirty.


Head lice are tiny, crawling insects that live in human hair. They do not fly or jump. The females lay eggs called nits on the hair shaft close to the scalp, often at the nape of the neck and behind the ears. The nits are small, oval-shaped specks that can vary from whitish to brownish and are firmly cemented in place, and cannot be brushed or flicked away.


Persistent itching of the head and back of the neck can indicate head lice. Most important is examining hair and scalp, especially the nape of the neck and behind the ears, for nits.


If you discover lice or nits, ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider about treatment options. 


Please periodically check your child’s head for lice and nits.


Helpful Links:


Head Lice: What Parents Need To Know

MMUUSD Management and Treatment of Head Lice


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