The dreaded “L” word. Those nasty little bugs that thrive on scalps and make parents whisper in school hallways. Anyone can contract lice, even if they’re super clean, so don’t feel ashamed if your family gets it. Just stay on top of it. Here are some things you should know about lice spread, how to spot them, and how to get rid of them.
How Lice Get Around
Lice are wingless little creatures that can’t fly or jump. They are spread through direct contact. Lice often hitch a ride on hats, combs, scarfs, and jackets. They can also hang onto things like sofas, pillows, towels, and movie-theater seats. Kids in preschool and elementary school are most likely to get lice.
Spotting Lice
Lice look like small grains of rice. Lice eggs, known as nits, are teardrop-shaped sacs that cling tightly to the side of hair. They’re slightly smaller than a sesame seed and can be white or brown.
Lice don’t like light. They scurry under hair when exposed. It’s easy to spot nits, which are mostly near the neck and behind the ears. Keep in mind that dandruff comes off hair easily; nits stick to it.
Check your child’s head on a regular basis, at least once a week. The earlier you spot lice, the easier it is to get rid of them.
Getting Rid of Lice
Lice can’t live off the human body for more than 24 hours. However, nits can live for two weeks. This is your time frame to get rid of them.
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Use over-the-counter lice shampoo to kill the lice. Follow the directions closely. Be thorough. Permethrin, which goes by the brand name Nix or Rid, can also be effective.
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Comb out lice and nits with a lice comb every day until they’re gone. Go section by section, layer by layer, and be prepared to spend a lot of time. Do it outside or set out a large towel, as lice can fall onto the ground. Rinse the comb frequently, then soak in hot water when finished.
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Wash linens and clothes in hot water. Vacuum bedrooms and furniture every day. Bag up stuffed animals and put them in them in the basement or garage.
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Soak brushed and combs for an hour in hot water mixed with anti-lice shampoo. Or, throw them out.
If you still can’t seem to get rid of these pests, talk to your pediatrician.
Preventing Spread
Don’t share hats, combs, hair ribbons, jackets, scarfs, or any other item that could carry lice. And don’t hand these items close together at school or other public places.
Lice can only live on humans. There’s no need to check the pets.