Time to Check for Head Lice

Now that school's begun, parents should check their young children for head lice as part of their family's regular routine, according to Dr. Annette Bredthauer, the state's public health veterinarian with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

"Head lice are common among elementary school students because they have a lot of physical contact with their classmates," Dr. Bredthauer said.

Lice are reddish-brown wingless insects; lice eggs, or nits, are grayish-white, always oval shaped and are attached at an angle to the side of the hair shaft.

The most-used insecticidal louse shampoos or crème rinse products contain pyrethrins or permethrin and are available as over-the-counter products.

A prescription product that contains malathion can also address head lice, Dr. Bredthauer said. This product is useful for families who have tried other products but had difficulty in controlling lice. No matter what product is used, label instructions should be carefully followed to maximize effectiveness.

Dr. Bredthauer offered these tips in combating head lice:

• Check children and watch for signs of head lice, such as frequent head scratching;
• Remove all nits with a comb or fingernails to assure total lice treatment;
• Use a medicated shampoo or crème rinse, but remember that all lice-killing products are pesticides and label directions should be followed;
• Check with your physician before using lice treatment pesticides if the child has allergies, asthma or epilepsy; and
• Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and dry in a hot dryer.

For more information contact Dr. Bredthauer at (402) 471-1374.