Head lice are tiny insects, 2-3mm long,
which lay their eggs firmly attached to the base of the hair shaft.
These eggs typically hatch in 1-2 weeks and produce an adult louse
within 2 weeks. Head lice infestation is most common among preschool
and elementary school children. All children can potentially be
affected, and poor personal hygiene is not a significant risk factor for
acquiring head lice. Transmission occurs by direct contact with the
head of an infected individual. Sharing a bed with a carrier of head
lice increases the risk of transmission, but sharing combs, brushes, or hats
is rarely a source of transmission.
Initial treatment involves the use of
Nix, an over-the-counter medicated shampoo. Please follow the
directions on the bottle closely, and consider treating family members who
share a bed with the patient. Wash all sheets, pillowcases, and
clothing the child used in the past 48 hou rs in hot water. Clean
brushes and combs. Because not all eggs can be killed in the first
application, your doctor may recommend repeating Nix in 7-10 days. If
the above treatment does not resolve the problem, please see your
physician.
This page was authored by Dr. Robert Higginbotham.
This page was authored by Dr. Robert Higginbotham.
