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 Head Lice Information As you know, lice outbreaks are very common in school-aged children. Lice infestations are a nuisance and not a health hazard. Often, as a school entity, we are unaware of the number of cases in school at any given time. As a result -- and in order to maintain confidentiality -- we do not send letters or notification of any sort. It is necessary that all parents/guardians check their child’s head DAILY throughout the year. The American Academy of Pediatrics states most cases of head lice are acquired outside of school and it is only with this due diligence that lice infestation can be controlled, to some extent. Head-to-head contact with an already infested person is the most common way to get head lice. Head-to-head contact is common during play (sports activities, playground, slumber parties, camp). Traveling -- especially to places that cater to children -- can also be a common way for lice to spread. Spread by contact with inanimate objects and personal belongings may occur, but is very uncommon. Head lice feet are specially adapted for holding onto human hair, and therefore would have difficulty attaching firmly to smooth or slippery surfaces like plastic, metal, polished synthetic leathers, and other similar materials. Head lice survive less than 1–2 days if they fall off a person and cannot feed. In addition to daily head checks, another way to prevent the spread of lice is to ensure that students with long hair are wearing their hair completely up, not sharing combs, hats or accessories, and not playing with each other’s hair. There may be discussion in the community regarding the prevention/treatment of lice; however, there is no research-based evidence that supports using any particular shampoo or hairspray that will prevent the spread of lice and therefore we cannot recommend these as a preventative measure. We encourage you not to assume, if you use these products, that your child is free from lice. Also, in the event of an active case of lice, there are outside services available to assist you at a cost, but we as a school entity, do not make any recommendations on any particular service. Get a Jump on School Immunizations
Be sure to check with your child's doctor about immunizations. See below for the requirements by grade level. |
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