Pediculosis--A Pesky Problem

 

 

by Marian Brown

Parents faithfully teach their children how to cross the street safely, not to talk to strangers, and that sharing is the right thing to do. However, with sharing we need to add some clarification. Sharing toys and books is fine, but, sharing hats, combs, and other personal care items can lead to spreading germs, bacteria, and disease--namely head lice!

Head lice are non-discriminatory--they pay no heed to race, religion, sex or economic status. Yes, even the cleanest, most impeccably groomed child can become infected infected with head lice and in turn infect the whole family. Some information is now showing that head lice in fact having an easier time infecting hair that is "squeaky" clean.

Across the nation several school districts have faced or are facing head lice epidemics. This too is being blamed on "global warming". (Some speculation is that warmer weather keeps the lice more active.) But, whatever the cause, the infestation happens very quickly. It is a simple process. Childen often share hair combs, barrettes and hats, allowing the head lice to leave one home (your hat) for a new one --the other child's hair.

Fortunately, head lice nits are easy to spot. They are tiny, white or pearly colored eggs that attach themselves to the hair. (See illustration at top - greatly enlarged for detail.) They will not easily flake off like dry scalp or dandruff. The lice themselves are dark colored, similar to fleas, but almost crab-shaped in appearance. It is common to find nits, but no lice.

Unfortunately, head lice are not as easy to get rid of or deter. Pre-treatment (with over-the-counter or prescription shampoos) is NOT effective or recommended. Like new antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria/viruses, head lice are becoming more resistant to treatment and the treatment, if overdone, can be harmful to us.

As parents, there are several things we can do on the prevention side. First, explain to your children that personal items such as combs and hats should not be shared with others or should your children borrow or use those items from their friends. Be sure to explain that other items can be shared and do not scare your children by being overly dramatic about getting a disease or "bugs".

Follow this sharing concept at home. Each family member should have his/her own personal comb/brush and hat--teach by example.

Good hygiene alone will not prevent head lice. Normal shampoos will not deter them. However, tea tree oil has been traditionally used (and is commonly used in other countries) as a natural repellent against head lice. Commercial tea tree shampoos are available or simply prepare your own by adding 3-5 drops of tea tree oil to 1 ounce of shampoo. Another option, which I personally used, is to rub the tea tree oil directly on a fine-toothed comb and comb through the hair, adding additional drops of oil as needed. (Do not wet the hair with the oil or pour directly on the scalp.)

Other preventative measures include washing bedding and outer clothing frequently. Tea tree oil is generally safe to add with detergent directly in the washing machine. (Use caution when washing delicate or fine washables.) (I have found that using 8-10 drops seems sufficient as tee tree oil is a highly concentrated essential oil.)

Also, if head lice is prevalent in your school, visit your child's classroom. Many schools face over-crowding and coats/hats/etc are on top of each other or overlapping. Look for alternatives to this, and the spreading may be cut down.

Should prevention fail, contact your health care provider and be sure to contact your child's daycare or school nurse!

All information is provided for education and general use and does not take the place of a qualified health care provider. Always use caution when using essential oils.

Related Article -- Press Release from National Pediculosis Association Advocates "Precaution, Preparedness & Peace of Mind" for National Head Lice Prevention Month