Please read the information below and refer to the Halton Region Public Health website: .
If your child has head lice, please consult with a pharmacist to determine the appropriate recommended treatment. Individuals with particular allergies should consult their family doctor.
What are Head Lice?
Head lice (pediculosis) have nothing to do with lack of cleanliness 鈥� anyone can get head lice. They are a nuisance, but they do not cause illness. Head lice are not a public health problem because they do not transmit disease.
- Live head lice:
- Are greyish, six-legged insects that are 2 mm 鈥� 4 mm in length (as adults)
- Can be difficult to see because they move quickly on the scalp
- Head lice eggs:
- Are very small 鈥� about half the size of a pinhead
- Can be whitish-grey, tan or yellow in colour
- Are glued to the hair shaft less than 陆 inch away from the scalp
- Can take about 7 – 10 days to hatch
What to do if you discover your child has head lice
- Inform your child’s school immediately so action may be taken to minimize the spread.
- Talk to a pharmacist. Ask for a product that kills head lice and their eggs.
- Consult with for information on head lice, recommended treatment procedures and prevention.