Head Lice Alert

We've observed a recent increase in head lice cases among our students. While head lice are a common issue in school communities, proactive measures can help prevent their spread.

What Are Head Lice?

Head lice are small, wingless insects that live on the human scalp, feeding on blood. They spread primarily through direct head-to-head contact and are not a sign of poor hygiene. Lice cannot jump or fly; they crawl from one head to another. 

School Policy on Head Lice

According to the Victorian Department of Education, if a student is found to have live head lice, they must be excluded from school until the day after appropriate treatment has commenced. www2.education.vic.gov.au

How You Can Help

• Regular Checks: Inspect your child's hair weekly for signs of lice or nits (lice eggs). health.com
• Prompt Treatment: If lice are found, begin treatment immediately using recommended methods.
• Inform the School: Notify us if your child has head lice so we can take appropriate measures to prevent further spread.

Treatment Options

Two effective treatment methods are: 

1. Conditioner and Comb Method: Apply conditioner to wet hair and comb through with a fine-toothed lice comb every second day until no lice are found for 10 consecutive days. 
2. Insecticide Treatments: Use products containing permethrin or pyrethrin, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully. 

Resources for Families

For more detailed information on detection and treatment:

• Better Health Channel – Head Lice
• Health.vic – Head Lice Information

Let's work together to ensure a healthy and comfortable environment for all our students.