First Aid 2023

Head Lice

Head lice have been around for thousands of years and anyone can get head lice. Head lice are small, wingless, blood sucking insects which result in itching the scalp. They vary in colour from whitish-brown to reddish-brown. Head lice only survive on humans. 

If treated quickly they usually die within 24 hours. Head lice are transferred from direct hair to hair contact with someone who has head lice. This more commonly happens with children when they play and work closely together. Head lice can NOT fly or jump as they do not have wings, they can only crawl.

Treatment

Treating head lice involves removing lice and eggs from the hair. You can find appropriate treatments at the Chemist. 

According to the Public Health and Wellbeing Regulations 2009, children with head lice can be readmitted to school after treatment has commenced. There is no need to miss school because of head lice.  There is also no need to treat the whole family unless they have head lice. 

Life Cycle of Lice

Helpful Resource

https://www.health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases/head-lice