Getting ahead of a pest

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 6, Issue 285, 2 May 1989, Page 7

Getting ahead of a pest

Every so often in any community head lice, or pediculosis, burrow their ugly little heads and become a nuisance.

They are not dangerous to health but it is much nicer without them. Lice are tiny, crawling insects (about the size of a pinhead) that feed on human blood. They are light to dark brown in colour, and are found in the hair or on the scalp. Eggs or nits are creamy white and are fixed to the hair close to the scalp. They hatch into young lice in about nine days. You can tell the difference between lice eggs and dandruff by pulling the hair through your fingers. If the 'flake' stays fixed, it is probably a louse eggIf your child has head lice: • Phone the childs teacher. Your child probably caught the iice from someone at school. Other parents can then be asked to check their children's heads and treatment can be started. • Buy a special comb and lotion or shampoo from the chemist and use as

directed on the label. Treat the whole family. • Comb your child's hair with the special comb until old egg cases are removed. This means that if reinfestation occurs you will be able to see the new eggs and re-treat. • Wash and dry ALL brushes, combs, hats and scarves. • Vacuujn chairs, cushions, mats and

carpet. • Wash bedding and air pillows and blankets outside if possible. You can prevent head lice: • Show your children how to wash their hair properly. • Encourage them to do this at least once a week. • Wash brushes and combs at the same time.

• Everyone on the family should use their own brush and comb. • Teach children not to share clothes especially hats and scarves There is now a special spray available which is sprayed on the hair to prevent the spread of head lice. Ask your chemist.

Judith

Brake

Public Health Nurse