Head Lice a Common Problem for Kids

Finding out your child has a head lice infection can cause many questions to flow through your mind. How did my child get head lice? How common is this problem? Where can I turn for real answers? Our lice clinic is an excellent place to get the information and help you need to remove your head lice problem.

Here are a few answers to questions that might be racing through your mind:

-Yes, head lice is a common, normal problem that millions of people deal with. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that between 6 to 12 million children between the ages of 3 – 11 will contract head lice in America this year.

-Although it is impossible to know exactly how many cases there are each year, high schools and jr. high schools are reporting an increased number of head lice outbreaks. Possibly due to the selfie trend that is sweeping the nation, or spending too much time on smartphones or iPods with friends, head lice are being passed on from teens more often than in times past.

–One of the top three reasons children reportedly miss school is due to head lice. No-nit policies are still in effect in many areas but are often being reconsidered as government healthcare agencies have suggested that many children are missing school unnecessarily. Check with your local district so you know what to expect for your child.

-Direct head to head contact is always the most common way head lice is transferred. No matter what your age, if you come into direct head to head contact with someone that is infected with head lice your chances of catching it as high.

-Head lice is not dangerous and do not pose a health risk. However, it is highly contagious and can wreak havoc on a home or group of people if not dealt with properly.

–Adults catch head lice most often through their children. It is vital to have all household members checked when one person in your home is showing symptoms of head lice.

-Your lovable dog and precious cat are not responsible for transferring head lice. Pets play no role in passing on this human parasite.

-When an adult louse or a nymph is removed from a host head, it will live up to 48 hours with no food and warmth. This means that head lice or nits that may have fallen off on to a pillow, couch, hat or any number of household items need to be cleaned off and killed.

-Most importantly, remain calm! Lice Clinics of America is a team of professionals who know all things head lice. We are here to offer head lice screenings, provide you with options for fast removal and give you answers to the questions that are racing through your mind. Call our office today to schedule your appointment.