Head Lice (Nits)

Lice are tiny brown insects that move around the hair and scalp. Nits are the eggs, which are tiny, white and stick to the hair. These will hatch within a week and become lice (which are active for several weeks).

Signs and symptoms include itchy scalp and evidence of lice and nits on close inspection of the hair.

At home

  • Buy nit comb and solution for washing their hair from your pharmacist and follow the instructions carefully.
  • Check other household members and treat if lice or nits are found.
  • Once treated, your child can return to school or daycare the next day. Notify the school or daycare to be on the watch for other outbreaks.
  • Tie long hair back when your child is attending daycare or school and check their hair regularly.

Chapter 4 Your Child's Health

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