According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

It is estimated that 6-12 million children ages 3-11, in the United States, get head lice each year.  Head lice do NOT spread diseases and by themselves are not a health hazard.  What they are is an uncomfortable and distracting annoyance to those that get them!

Things to remember about head lice...

• The number 1 way they spread is by head to head contact.  Head lice do NOT fly or jump.
• Getting head lice has nothing to do with the cleanliness of the person or his/her environment.
• In a majority of cases, head lice can easily be treated.

As parents/guardians watch for these signs...

• Your child is complaining of a "tickling" feeling on their head, like something is moving in their hair.
• Watch for itching-particularly around and behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the head.
• Watch for increased irritability and difficulty sleeping, head lice are most active in the dark.

Remind your child...

#1 most important way to prevent the spread of head lice-avoid head to head (hair to hair) contact during play or other activities at home, school or elsewhere!

A much more uncommon way to get head lice is through the sharing of things like hats and hair brushes.  None the less, children should be encouraged to avoid sharing hats, scarves, coats, hairs accessories, combs, brushes, towels, sports helmets and the like.

If you suspect your child may have head lice contact the school nurse.