How can you prevent lice?

To prevent the spread of lice, take these precautions:

- Regular screening: Check your child’s hair, especially behind the ears and near the nape of the neck, about once a week for signs of lice, especially if they are in close contact with someone who has lice or if nits are found in the classroom.

- Avoid head-to-head contact: Because lice can spread through direct head-to-head contact, remind children to avoid touching heads with their playmates.

- Don't share personal belongings: Prevent sharing combs, brushes, hats, scarves, hair clips, and headphones with others.

- Machine-wash in hot water: To wash clothing, bedding and other items that may have come in contact with lice or nits, use the hottest water the fabric can withstand. Then dry the items using the highest heat setting. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a garbage bag and left for two weeks.

- Check furniture: Furniture and floors the person has had recent head contact with (such as a couch where they took a nap) should be vacuumed thoroughly. Any items that can’t be washed can be sealed in a garbage bag and left for two weeks.

- Notify and inform others: If lice are found on your child, notify their school or daycare center so that they can check other children for lice.