Head lice are a very common issue among children, especially at school, but they are not a sign of poor hygiene and can be treated effectively when detected early.

Lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on small amounts of blood, while nits are lice eggs that stick firmly to the hair near the roots. They usually spread through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items like combs, hats, and hair accessories.

Common signs of lice include:

• Intense itching, especially behind the ears and at the back of the head
• A tickling sensation in the hair
• Trouble sleeping or irritability
• Small white or yellowish nits attached to the hair

To check your child’s hair, use a fine-tooth lice comb under good lighting, divide the hair into small sections, and carefully inspect the scalp, especially behind the ears and near the neck.

Treatment usually starts with a lice shampoo or lotion such as permethrin or pyrethrin, following the instructions carefully. After treatment, comb the hair thoroughly to remove dead lice and nits, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice.

To help prevent lice from returning:

• Avoid sharing personal items
• Tie long hair back
• Check hair regularly
• Wash clothes and bedding in hot water

Remember, head lice are a temporary and manageable problem, and with the right treatment and care, they can be eliminated successfully.