TRANSMISSION
The process of transferring lice from one individual to another generally
occurs from direct head-to-head contact. Transmission of lice is more likely
to occur in the home setting versus the school setting. Lice do not jump or
fly. They do not live off of a human host for more than 24 hours.
SCREENING
Mass screenings are disruptive and not warranted. RRISD will not conduct mass
screenings. THIS PROCEDURE MUST BE FOLLOWED. Mass screenings increase the
potential for lice phobia and unnecessary use of lice medication that can
cause resistance. It is the parent’s responsibility to check their students
head once a week. If 5 or more students have live lice, in the same week, in
the same classroom, you need to assess what is happening in the classroom.
You may screen this classroom as needed, but be very discreet about it.
Other students should not know when you have found lice on a student. If the
teacher notices excessive head scratching the student can be sent to the
clinic for a check. A parent may call and want you to check their student’s
head, which you can do. Parents should check their students head for lice on
a weekly basis. Parents may not call and request that you check another
student’s head. DO NOT DISCUSS A STUDENTS LICE ISSUE WITH ANYONE OTHER THEN
A CUSTODIAL PARENT OR GUARDIAN.
NOTIFICATION LETTERS
Classroom or school-wide notifications may only increase public alarm and
bring undue attention to the student with lice. To prevent unnecessary abuse
of lice medication the state recommends that only the parents of children
with live lice be notified. However, RRISD can notify a classroom in
elementary school if 2 or more students in that classroom in the same week
have live lice.
EXCLUSION
There is little evidence that exclusion from school reduces the transmission
of lice. NO OTHER MINOR MEDICAL CONDITION WARRANTS SCHOOL EXCLUSION.
The “no nit” policy is not in the best interest of the child, family or
school. “No nit” policies have not put an end to lice infestation. The
parent of any student with live lice only will be notified to pick up the
student and provide treatment. The student’s condition will remain
confidential.
TREATMENT
It is recommended that an FDA approved, over the counter lice product be
used. It is important that the parent use a METAL lice comb to remove the
nits and dead lice. Eight to ten days later the student should be treated
with the same product again to ensure that nits are killed after hatching.
After another 10 days the nurse will reexamine the student. If live lice are
found parents will be advised to contact their physician to verify treatment
failure and receive a prescription product.
CONTROLLING THE HOME ENVIRONMENT
Excessive cleaning is not recommended, as lice cannot live off of a human
host for more than 24 hours. It is recommended that all recently used
clothes, towels and bedding material be washed in the hottest water and dried
on the highest setting. Stuffed animals do not have to be placed in plastic
bags for several weeks. If the child sleeps with a stuffed animal or blanket
it will need to be washed in the hottest water and dried on the highest
setting. All of the child’s combs, hairbrushes and hair accessories should
be cleaned in at least 130 degree F water. These items should not be
shared. Spraying of furniture, rugs, carpets and pets with a lice
insecticide are not recommended. If one member of the family is infested
then all members need to be checked. If lice are found they need to follow
the treatment guidelines.