School Nurse Eileen
As a School Nurse, one of my responsibilities is to check all students at least annually for Head Lice (Pediculosis). This condition is contagious & sometimes difficult to eliminate; has nothing to do with cleanliness. Do use the Head Lice Shampoos and use as indicated; one of the best is Rid and doesn't require a prescription. You must also treat everything that comes in contact with your child's head/hair. Combs & brushes should be soaked in 1/2 bleach & 1/2 water solution for 1 hour, vacuum all furniture & carpeting very well, wash in very hot water all clothing & bedding (use a steam iron on non washable articles), check and/or treat all humans in the household. If you do not complete this list very well, it will be extremely difficult to eliminate the problem. Do not allow anyone to sleep over your house for at least 1 month. Notify your relatives and close friends about this problem; your child may have picked up the Head Lice from one of them. Don't bother using the special nit combs (useless) but instead pull out every nit by hand. All it takes is one nit or louse (head lice) to start the problem all over again. In most States, students are not allowed back into school until the School Nurse has cleared them of this problem. I'm surprised your School Nurse did not give you written instructions on this minor but bothersome problem. If you have any further questions/concerns, you may email me or speak with your School Nurse, Pharmacist, or Pediatrician. Tell your child(children) not to use combs, brushes nor anything else that comes in contact with one's head or hair from other individuals as this problem could again develop. Don't be ashamed for my Niece whose Mother is a Nurse also caught if from another student in school. Good luck.