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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Head Lice

Lice are human parasites that complete their whole life cycle on the body of the host.

This species of lice that infests the head are called 'Pediculus humanus var. capitis'. These head lice are wingless, flattened in appearance and measure about 2mm in length.

The lice are white to milk-coffee coloured and so may be difficult to see - especially on light or fair hair.

Head lice can be transferred by direct personal contact and by objects such as brushes and combs, hats, pillows and upholstered furniture. The infestation is thus found among all socio-economic classes, as good personal hygiene does not afford protection.

Head lice are more commonly transferred among children than adults; however, children may pass the lice to adults in their families.

Symptoms & Signs

Common symptom is an itchy scalp, especially towards the back of the head and the nape of the neck.

The diagnosis is confirmed by finding the adult lice or the nits on the hair. Inspection of the scalp can be assisted with a magnifying lens. Nits are seen fixed to the hair shafts, they cannot be dislodged easily.

The adults and their egg shells can also be detected by combing wet hair over a sheet of white paper using a fine-toothed comb. Treatment Various products are available for treatment of head lice. It is important that products be used strictly according to manufacturers directions, particularly in relation to application to damp or dry hair, the amount of product needed and the duration of the application.

To ensure complete eradication, the hair should be examined for eggs after seven to ten days and the product reapplied if necessary. Other family members and close contacts should be examined and treated if necessary to prevent re-infestation.

It is important to note that bites may itch for several days after successful treatment so checking for the presence of eggs and/or lice again will avoid unnecessary treatment which could contribute to the development of resistant strains.

Management To Prevent Re-Infestation

To prevent re-infestation, wash and heat dry, dry clean or hot-iron hats, coats, shirts, blankets, sheets and pillow cases.

Those items which cannot be washed should be placed in a sealed plastic bag for seven to ten days, which will destroy both lice and eggs.

Vacuum or otherwise clean beds, pillows and upholstered furniture.

For further advice on treatment options, come in and talk to the pharmacist at your most convenient Healthpoint Chemist.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.