Parents have been given a heads-up about the problem that can quickly spread across a classroom
With the end of summer quickly approaching, this week will see millions of children across the UK prepare to return to the classroom after the school holidays in England. With this, parents have been warned to be on alert for.
Superdrug has warned parents about a sharp rise in head lice cases. The leading healthcare retailer has seen sales of its head lice treatment spray jump by 21.2% in recent weeks.
The surge highlights the seasonal spike that coincides with the return to school. But, Superdrug’s Pharmacy Superintendent Niamh Mcmillan says that going back to school doesn’t have to mean getting a case of head lice.
What are head lice?
Head lice are tiny insects that feed on human blood, most often from the scalp and are found worldwide. Whilst lice are not strictly just a school problem, the classroom environment does provide these bugs with the prime environment to thrive because the close contact common among children during play and learning activities makes them easily transmissible.
Nimah claims: “[Lice] can affect anyone, but are most common among children aged four to twelve. During the warmer summer months, there is a greater opportunity for head lice to be transmitted from head to head as children play outside more often.”
How can you spot head lice?
Niamh said that, if you suspect your child has head lice, then the first step is to inspect their head. You should only begin head lice treatment, once you have spotted a lice in their hair.
To check for head lice, you should examine hair in bright light using a fine-toothed comb, focusing on the nape of the neck and behind the ears, where live lice and their eggs (nits) are most commonly found.
Nits are tiny, white or yellow-brown specks firmly attached to the hair shaft, while live lice are small, fast-moving insects. Damp combing with conditioner can make the process easier and help you spot the lice on the comb
Can head lice be prevented?
The NHS website claims that, unfortunately, there’s “nothing you can do to prevent head lice”. The experts add that you can help stop them spreading by wet combing regularly, using a detection comb, to catch them early.
Parents can reduce the risk by explaining that their child should avoid head-to-head contact or sharing personal items like hats, brushes, and towels. It is not advised to use medicated lotions and sprays to prevent head lice, as these can irritate the scalp.
The NHS states that cases of head lice (or nits) are not caused by dirty hair. Instead, the most common way these bugs are picked up is by head-to-head contact.
How do you treat head lice?
Niamh said: “The wet combing method can help remove head lice from hair. Use a fine-toothed comb and gently pull the comb through sections of wet hair, from roots to the ends. Wipe the comb after each stroke, checking each time for head lice.”
“Alternatively, Superdrug’s Own Brand Head Lice Treatment (£5.99) can help kill present head lice and eggs in the hair. Apply liberally to hair and leave for two minutes before washing out.
“If treatment hasn’t worked, speak to a Superdrug Pharmacist who will be able to advise on different treatment options available.” The charity Community Hygiene Concern has a video about wet combing for head lice.