0 Checking for head lice

As the warmer months approach the prevalence of lice will thrive. These nasty critters happily take up residence in the heads of unsuspecting children and families.
Currently lice prevalence is high but with lice education, regular lice checks and prevention it could be possible to bring this prevalence down.
It's only around 35% of lice infestations that experience the itching symptom, a child can have head lice that won't be identified outside of a head lice check. Regular checks create awareness for both the child and parent on the issue, can identify an infestation and if caught early could possibly reduce the infestation passing rapidly through a school or day care.
To check for head lice it is best to use a nit comb, which has teeth that are tight enough to get hold of the lice and nits and remove them from the hair. Lice are tiny with soft slippery skin and the nits are even smaller, so it's important the comb has the appropriate teeth to grab hold of them.
It's a great idea to use a combing solution or conditioner to help detangle knots; making it easier to comb through the hair but also to temporarily daze and identify the lice. Apply the conditioner generously to completely cover the hair, the conditioner will actually block the louse's spiracles (breathing) and slow them down making them easier to find and remove.
You may discover lice eggs (nits) without identifying a live louse, which may be a new infestation. It only takes one fertile female to transfer onto another scalp and begin laying her eggs for a new generation of lice.Lice move very quickly therefore the female louse may not have been found in the initial check. It is recommended that the combing process is repeated every couple of days until the louse is found - this is where a combing solution or conditioner can help.
If head lice are identified on one child in the family there is a high probability that another member of the family also has head lice. Ensure that other members of the family are checked too.
It is important to remember that it is possible to reduce the chances of a head lice infestation with a few simple prevention steps. Long hair should always be tied up into a plait or a bun which removes long strands of hair from the grasp of a lurking louse. Although it is rare for lice to transfer from the sharing of hats and brushes, it is possible.Lice start to dehydrate once away from the scalp and will eventually die. Discourage children from sharing their hat, hair tie and brush.
Head lice are not dirty, so don't be embarrassed to inform the teacher or school that your child is experiencing a case of head lice. This will prompt the school to instruct other parents to check for lice in their children which could reduce the chances of a reinfestation.

NitWits Natural is a 100% family owned Australian company that have developed a range of head lice products, free from potentially harmful pesticides. Our products are made using natural ingredients to effectively tackle head lice and their eggs. Always read the label. Use only as directed. For more helpful information, please visit the NitWits head lice website.