Itchy Scalp: Could it be Head Lice? How Not to Get it!

It's an exciting time of year! Kids are back in school, there are upcoming Homecoming games and dances, school orientations, and parent/teacher meetings.

Remember head lice is excited for the school year too! (and can't wait to ruin your day with a zesty case of the creepy crawlies!)

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I've never had to deal with head lice with my boys growing up, but typically boys aren't sharing brushes and combs and braiding each other's hair.

Did you know you can pick up headlice virtually anywhere? An airport, a plane, someone's sofa, the waiting room at a Doctor's office. Anyone anywhere can pick up head lice.

Usually. it's not a hard surface though, they can remain lingering for some time such as on an earbud or headphones. But lice like comfy fabric like a sofa, sweater or a pillow.

Surprisingly, more people don't have it. Remind your kids not to share caps, hats, scarves, or clothing with other kids.

Don't be fooled, head lice can spread like wildfire through a school or business and no one is exempt from the possibility.

If your head feels itchy during the day that is a good indication that you need to check for lice or Nits (eggs) Have someone help you by searching your head, hair and scalp for anything unusual.

Can you get head lice standing close to someone who has it?

No, you can't get lice from standing next to someone who has lice because lice can only crawl and aren't able to jump, fly, or hop. Lice are spread through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing items that have been in close contact with an infected person's head, such as hats, brushes, scarves, pillows, and towels.

If you do find lice, you should make sure everyone around you gets checked for lice as well. Lice can't survive for more than 24 hours off of a human scalp. 

How should I clean after a lice infestation?

Soak everything in Hot water at least 130 degrees for at least 20 minutes. Then Dry in a hot dryer for 20 minutes. For things that can be put in water, seal them in a bag for two weeks.

While there are no proven methods to prevent head lice, there are some products or remedies people swear by. 

Store-bought prevention kits are available too. The best tip is just to be aware, and check yourself and your kids periodically. Don't share stuff where it comes in close contact with another person and keep a lice kit on hand just in case!