Often times headlice shows up both unannounced and unwelcome.  Hopefully the following information will help to keep the exposure to a minimum and help to eliminate them in the event they do show up in your family and home. Head lice cases have been on the rise. An estimated 6 to 12 million infestations occur each year in the United States, most commonly among children ages 3 to 11.  I hope the information below will help you identify lice and what to do if lice affect your home.

What are head lice?
Head lice are tiny, wingless insects that live close to the human scalp. They feed on blood. The eggs, also called nits, are tiny, tear-drop shaped eggs that attach to the hair shaft. Nits often appear yellowish or white, and can look like dandruff but cannot be removed or brushed off. The nymph, or baby louse, is smaller and grow to adult size in one to two weeks. The adult louse is the size of a sesame seed appears tan to grayish-white. An itchy and inflamed scalp is a common symptom of lice. Although not common, persistent scratching may lead to skin irritation and even infection.

Who is affected by head lice?
Head lice are not related to cleanliness. Head lice often infest people with good hygiene and grooming habits.2 Infestations can occur at home, school or in the community. Head lice are usually spread by direct head-to-head contact—for example, during play at home or school, slumber parties, sports activities, or camp. Less often, lice are spread via objects that have been in recent contact with a person with head lice, such as hats, scarves, hair ribbons, combs, brushes, stuffed animals or bedding.

What to do if an infestation occurs?
If you think your child has head lice, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment approach for your family. Resistance to some over-the-counter head lice treatments has been reported, but the prevalence of resistance is not known.  Please notify your school nurse if your child is treated for lice so close contacts can be identified and classrooms can be monitored. 

I hope you find this information from the National Association of School Nurses useful.