About Head Lice

Where do head lice come from?
Head lice have been around for centuries. As with any insect, they begin to adapt to their environment in order to survive. Unfortunately we will never be able to be rid of all of them, but Hedrin can make managing them simpler and easier.

How do the lice move around?
Head lice cannot fly and jumping is not in their repertoire either. Instead head lice can only crawl and need head to head contact in order to move from one person to another. It is possible that because of the way younger children interact, that head lice do occur more among primary school children than teenagers or adults.

Can head lice live in bedding, hats, clothes or carpet?
No, lice require blood to survive, without it they will dehydrate in 6 hours if in a dry climate and 24 hours in a humid climate. As these head lice only live for a very short time o the head, the only extra cleaning needed is to wash the pillowcases on a hot wash cycle.
What type of hair does head lice prefer?
Head lice are not picky. They do not care if hair is long, short, washed this morning or last week. As long as they are warm and have blood to survive on they are content to stay put.
Can I prevent head lice?
There is no research that has proven that chemical or natural treatments prevent lice. It is important to check your child’s hair regularly even if you don’t think your child has head lice.
Who is responsible for checking and treating the head lice?
 It is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to check their child’s hair and if necessary treat them for head lice.
Does my child have to miss school?
A child with head lice can return to school, kindergarten or childcare after head lice treatment has commenced. Although head lice policies may vary in each facility and may require your child to stay home until the following day. Please confirm with your school or centre.

 

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