Lice Information
🪮 HEAD LICE INFORMATION
What families need to know
🧠 The Basics
- Head lice are common in young children and families
- They are not related to cleanliness
- They spread mainly through head-to-head contact
- Lice are not dangerous but can be a nuisance
✅ Checking your child’s hair regularly at home is one of the best ways to prevent spread
🔄 How Lice Spread
- Most often through close contact during play
- Less commonly by sharing personal items (hats, brushes, etc.)
🏫 At School
If lice are suspected:
- Student is checked privately by trained health room staff
If only nits (eggs) are found:
- Families are notified
- Student may stay in school for the remainder of the day
- Removal of nits is encouraged
If live lice are found:
- Families are notified the same day
- Student may remain in class for the remainder of the day
- Avoid close head contact
- Goal: minimize missed school time
🧴 After Treatment
- Treat at home as soon as possible
- Student can usually return the next day after treatment
- An adult should check in at the school office with the student when you return
- Staff will confirm the student is free of live lice
- If live lice are found, the student will need to go home and treat again till all live lice are gone
🔒 Privacy Matters
Student confidentiality is always protected as much as possible.
💬 Questions or More Info
For head lice symptoms, treatment, and prevention: Washington State Dept of Health Website and contact your School Nurse.
💙 Working Together
Early checks and prompt treatment help keep kids in school and learning!