Burnley St Peter's C of E Primary School
Headlice
Head lice are very common in young children and their families. They are not caused by dirty hair and are usually spread through close, head-to-head contact.
How do I check for head lice?
The best way to check is to use a fine-toothed head lice detection comb, available from pharmacies and supermarkets.
You may notice your child:
- scratching their head;
- complaining that their scalp is itchy; or
- saying that it feels like something is moving in their hair.
The only way to be sure is to find live head lice.
What should I do if I find head lice?
Please treat them as soon as possible and check everyone in your household. Anyone who has live head lice should be treated on the same day.
Wet combing
Wet combing is a simple way to remove head lice and nits:
- Wash the hair with normal shampoo.
- Apply plenty of conditioner.
- Use a fine-toothed detection comb.
- Comb carefully from the roots to the ends of the hair.
Repeat wet combing on days 1, 5, 9 and 13, then check the hair again on day 17.
What if wet combing doesn't work?
If you are still finding live head lice after wet combing, speak to your pharmacist. They can advise you about suitable treatments such as medicated lotions or sprays.
Always follow the instructions on the treatment carefully.
Does my child need to stay off school?
No. Children with head lice do not need to stay off school.
There is also no need to wash all bedding and clothing on a hot wash.
Helping to reduce the spread
Head lice cannot always be prevented, but checking your child's hair regularly can help you spot and treat them quickly.
Please do not use medicated head lice treatments to try to prevent head lice.
Please remember
Check regularly → Find live lice → Treat → Repeat checks
If we notify you that there has been a case of head lice in your child's class, please check your child's hair as soon as possible.