Head Lice

The guidance given to schools has recently changed and is now as follows:

If the school suspects that a child has head lice a letter should be sent home with the affected child only

• "Alert letters" should never be sent out to other parents because:

• They are not routinely sent out for other, more communicable diseases or infections.

• Most schools are likely to have a few pupils with head lice at any one time.

• They often lead parents to believe that there is an “outbreak” when in fact; only one child in the class may be infected. Those parents might then treat their own child preventatively, which is neither necessary nor advised.

• Children who have, or are thought to have, head lice should not be excluded from school.

Information about Head Lice

Head Lice are a common problem in school aged children. They can’t be prevented, but regular checking ensures early detection and treatment if necessary. Parents and carers should check their children’s head once a week during hair washing. You need your usual shampoo, conditioner, and a detection comb – ask your local pharmacist to recommend a suitable one. Remember that you are looking for living moving lice, the only evidence that your child is infected. If you find a living louse, ask your local pharmacist, school nurse, health visitor or GP for advice regarding treatment. For further information see:

NHS Inform