Lice can be a problem year round
By Melisa Gilliam
The Examiner
How many times have you thought about lice and started scratching your head? It is not a very nice subject. Unfortunately, it does not matter where you live in Cincinnati, you need to know about lice and most importantly how to treat the problem.
A few years ago I made the mistake of ignoring my daughter's lice symptoms because she was out of school for the summer. Shortly after her initial complaint, I knew that I needed to treat her for head lice. I did not think about lice since she was not in school and that was my mistake.
Lice are small insects that lay eggs to one's hair shaft. The egg cases are called nits. At first glance, it may appear to be dandruff, but nits are actually firmly attached to the hair and will not easily shake off. Lice can be passed by direct contact, sharing combs, hats or by clothing that lice are living.
Once it is determined that someone has lice, treatment is necessary. A doctor should be contacted if it is a very young child. There are several over the counter products that can be purchased at the store. Another option is a prescription product that must be ordered by the doctor. Most products are safe and effective if used as directed. In addition, a fine tooth comb is helpful in removing the lice and nits. Combing through the hair to remove lice and nits is done following the treatment. Most stores sell lice and nit combs either separately or with a lice kit. These combs are very helpful in removing these pests from the hair.
After the child is treated, it is essential to assure that all bedding, clothes, towels, hats, anything that may have come in contact with the lice, is washed to help prevent re-infestation. Do not forget to wash combs, brushes, barrettes and other hair items. The person's hair should be checked the following day to assure there are no missed nits. All family members should be checked to assure that others will not be carrying them, and to treat them if necessary. Be sure to follow the directions for the product you purchased before further treatment.
According to the Department of Health and Human Services-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, there is no need to have a home fumigated for lice. Routine cleaning is sufficient to rid the home of lice, concentrating on areas that the infested person has been in contact within the previous 48 hours.
Head lice are willing to live anywhere, on anyone, so if you need more information do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
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