Anyone who has dealt with head lice knows how frustrating and time-consuming the experience can be. Discovering that a child has lice is among the most stressful school-related situations. While head lice are not dangerous and do not transmit disease, they can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and extra work for parents. Unfortunately, head lice are common, especially among school-aged children.
Outbreaks often increase after extended breaks, when children spend more time in close contact, making it easier for lice to spread. Head lice infestations are most common among children aged 3 to 11. This is not due to poor hygiene—lice can live on both clean and dirty hair. Children are more likely to engage in close contact, whether playing, talking, or hugging. Lice spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact.
They cannot jump or fly, and while many believe lice spread through objects like hats or hairbrushes, the risk of transmission through these items is low. An outbreak typically begins when one or two children scratch their heads. If unnoticed, lice can spread to classmates, siblings, and even parents. Lice are small insects that feed on blood from the scalp, attaching their eggs (nits) close to the scalp.
Since lice don’t fly or jump, they spread only through direct contact, making schools and sleepovers common hotspots. While head lice aren’t dangerous, they can cause irritation and emotional stress. Early detection and treatment are essential to stop the spread. Over-the-counter or prescription treatments are effective, with wet combing being a reliable chemical-free option. With proper care, lice can be eliminated and future outbreaks prevented.
