header image

[Sign Up Now] to Receive Our FREE Daily SCVTV-SCVNews Digest by E-Mail

Inside
Weather


 
Calendar
Today in
S.C.V. History
April 20
1874 - First train out of L.A. to reach new town of San Fernando; Newhall 2 years later [story]
train tunnel


[KHTS] – The Saugus Union School District emailed parents on Friday warning about cases of head lice since students returned from winter break.

The email said parents of students in affected classrooms have already been notified. Office staff has checked every student on campus, returning students have been rechecked and custodians are doing extra cleaning of all classrooms.

The email included a fact sheet provided by School Health Services.

 

lousebuster2_hWhat are head lice?

Parasitic insects found on the heads of people. As many as 6-12 million people worldwide get head lice each year.

 

Who is at risk for head lice?

Anyone who comes into close contact with someone who already has head lice, contaminated clothing, and other belongings, may be at risk for getting head lice. Pre-school and elementary-age children, 3-10, and their families are infested most often. Girls get head licemore often than boys, women more than men. In the United States, African-Americans rarely get head lice.

 

What do head lice look like?

Nit: Nits, head lice eggs, are difficult to see and are frequently confused with dandruff. Nits are firmly attached to the hair shaft and take approximately one week to develop.

Nymph: The nit hatches into a nymph. Nymphs, which look like an adult, but smaller, mature into adults about 7 days after hatching. In order to live, the nymph must feed on blood.

Adult: The adult is about the size of a sesame seed, tan to grayish-white, with six legs. Adultlice can live on the head of an individual for up to thirty days. In order to live adult lice need to feed on blood. If the louse does not have a source of food it will die within two days.

 

Where are head lice most commonly found?

Head lice are most commonly found on the scalp behind the ears and near the neckline at the back of the neck. Head lice hold onto hair with hook-like claws found at the end of each of their six legs. Head lice are rarely found on the body, eyelashes, or eyebrows.

 

What are the signs and symptoms of head lice infestation?

* Tickling feeling or something moving in the hair

* Itching, caused by an allergic reaction to the bites

* Irritability

Sores on the head caused by scratching, can sometimes become infected.

 

How did my child get head lice?

By head to head contact with an already infested person. Contact is common during play at school and at home (slumber parties, sports activities, at camp, on a playground).

By wearing infested clothing, such as hats, scarves, coats, sports uniforms, or hair ribbons.

By using infested combs, brushes, or towels.

By lying on a bed, couch, pillow, carpet, or stuffed animal that has recently been in contact with an infested person.

 

How are head lice diagnosed?

By looking closely through the hair and scalp for nits, nymphs, or adults. Finding a nymph or adult may be difficult; there are usually few of them and they can move quickly from searching fingers. If crawling lice are not seen, finding nits within a . inch of the scalp confirms that a person is infested and should be treated. If you only find nits more than . inch from the scalp, the infestation is probably an old one and does not need to be treated.

 

How can I treat head lice infestation?

Step 1: Treat the infested person/any infested family members

Requires using an OTC (over-the-counter) or prescription medication. Follow these treatment steps:

1. Before applying treatment, remove all clothing from the waist up.

2. Apply lice medicine, also called pedicullicide, according to label instructions. If your child has extra long hair, you may need to use a second bottle.

WARNING: Do not use a creme rinse or combination shampoo/conditioner before using licemedicine. Do not rewash hair for 1-2 days after treatment.

3. Have the infested person put on clean clothing after the treatment.

4. If some live lice are still found 8-12 hours after treatment, but are moving more slowly, do not retreat. Using a metal lice comb, remove dead and remaining live lice out of the hair. The medicine sometimes takes longer to kill the lice.

5. If no dead lice are found 8-12 hours after treatment and lice seem to be as active as before, the medicine may not be working. See your health care provider for a different medication and follow the treatment instructions.

6. A lice comb should be used to remove nits and lice from the hair shaft. Many flea combs made for cats and dogs are also effective. Finer tooth nit combs, available through Wal-Med* and the National Pediculosis Association *, may also be helpful.

7. After treatment, check hair every 2-3 days and use a nit comb to remove any nits or lice you see.

8. Retreat in 7-10 days.

9. Check all treated persons for 2-3 weeks after you think that all lice and nits are gone.

Step 2: Treat the household

1. To kill lice and nits, machine-wash all washable clothing and bed linens that the infested person had touched during the 2 days before treatment. Use the hot water cycle (130F) to wash clothes. Dry the laundry using the hot cycle for at least 20 minutes.

2. Dry clean clothing that is not washable, (coats, hats, scarves, etc.) OR

3. Store all clothing, stuffed animals, comforters, etc., that cannot be washed or dry cleaned into a plastic bag and seal for two weeks.

4. Soak combs and brushes for 1 hour in rubbing alcohol, Lysol*, or wash with soap and hot (130 F) water.

5. Vacuum the floor and furniture. Do not use fumigant sprays; they can be toxic if inhaled.

Step 3: Prevent Reinfestation

Lice are most commonly spread directly by head-to-head contact and indirectly through sharing of contaminated clothing or belongings. Teach your children to avoid activities that are likely to spread lice.

Avoid head-to-head contact common during play at school and at home (slumber parties, sports activities, at camp, and on a playground).

Do not share clothing, such as hats, scarves, coats, sports uniforms, hair ribbons, or barrettes.

Do not share infested combs, brushes, or towels.

Do not lie on beds, couches, pillows, carpets, or stuffed animals that have recently been in contact with an infested person.

 

When treating head lice:

1. Do not use extra amounts of the lice medicine unless instructed. Drugs are insecticides and can be dangerous when misused or overused.

2. Do not treat the infested person more than 3 times with the same medication if it does not work. See your health care provider for alternative medications.

 

 

Comment On This Story
COMMENT POLICY: We welcome comments from individuals and businesses. All comments are moderated. Comments are subject to rejection if they are vulgar, combative, or in poor taste.
REAL NAMES ONLY: All posters must use their real individual or business name. This applies equally to Twitter account holders who use a nickname.

20 Comments

  1. Would also help if parents would keep others informed. If you have a sleepover and notice your child is infected give a shout out to the other kids that were just over!! Maybe lice wouldn’t spread so rapid if we all kept the topic open instead of ignoring it!

  2. I would just shave my head and call it a day.

  3. Moms need to put long hair up, use coconut hair products, and styling products like gel and hairspray. Brushes stay home. And, finally, I get that we all have to work, but school isn’t daycare. If they’re sick or infected, keep them home. Hire a babysitter. Rosedell has too many scares to count last year.

  4. Moms need to put long hair up, use coconut hair products, and styling products like gel and hairspray. Brushes stay home. And, finally, I get that we all have to work, but school isn’t daycare. If they’re sick or infected, keep them home. Hire a babysitter. Rosedell has too many scares to count last year.

  5. Daycare isn’t for sick kids either. Head Lice is common and the child should be quarantined. Products with tea tree oil are helpful in the prevention of infection also. Paul Mitchell has shampoo and conditioner as well as leave in products.

  6. It is a huge epidemic in the local schools especially elementary’s. As parents it is definitely relevant and how to treat. Thank you Kari for the natural tips.

  7. I know of a local company that helps our community! ;) “Educate and Eliminate” is their motto! Not only do they offer their in-home services they also sell all natural products! Check out their website! http://www.hairqueens.com

  8. I know of a local company that helps our community! ;) “Educate and Eliminate” is their motto! Not only do they offer their in-home services they also sell all natural products! Check out their website! http://www.hairqueens.com

  9. I know of a local company that helps our community! ;) “Educate and Eliminate” is their motto! Not only do they offer their in-home services they also sell all natural products! Check out their website! http://www.hairqueens.com

  10. I know of a local company that helps our community! ;) “Educate and Eliminate” is their motto! Not only do they offer their in-home services they also sell all natural products! Check out their website! http://www.hairqueens.com

  11. Linda Clark says:

    Over the counter products are known not to work. There is something called a superbug which is resistant to over the counter products. If just one egg is missed the whole process can start over again. Hair Queens has a lice comb for sale that is great. Do yourself a favor and call them, they are fabulous !!!

  12. I used the HairQueens! They were great!!! My daughter got it and then so did I and moms can’t do their own hair. They were kind, professional & yes their products are good too! :)

  13. I used the HairQueens! They were great!!! My daughter got it and then so did I and moms can’t do their own hair. They were kind, professional & yes their products are good too! :)

  14. I was raised in Florida. I never ever heard of lice until I was 28 in California. I’ve heard from a exterminator roaches in the home start them.

  15. Kim Lamas Kim Lamas says:

    Use Tea Tree Shampoo . It is a natural repellent to the lice. You can get it anywhere, I get mine at my hairdressers. I have seen it at any beauty salon, super cuts, etc. About $15 for a medium brittle, but worth it. Gets rid of dandruff and repels lice. Can’t go wrong

  16. Over the counter products are known not to work. There is something called a superbug which is resistant to over the counter products. If just one egg is missed the whole process can start over again. Hair Queens has a lice comb for sale that is great and not expensive- $15. Do yourself a favor and call them, they are fabulous !!!

Leave a Comment


LOCAL SCHOOL LINKS
Related Content
LATEST SCHOOL NEWS
Thursday, Apr 18, 2024
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond hosted a California Apprenticeship Summit Wednesday to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities and career technical education pathways that connect California’s youth to high-wage, high-growth career opportunities.
Tuesday, Apr 16, 2024
On Saturday, April 20, 2024 Valencia High School Theatre will host the 104th DTASC (Drama Teachers’ Association of Southern California) Shakespeare Festival.
Tuesday, Apr 16, 2024
The award-winning Valencia High School Theatre Arts proudly presents “The Outsiders” directed by Stephen Whelan.
Monday, Apr 15, 2024
Castaic Union School District is thrilled to announce that Lara Frandzel has been selected to participate in the Teacher Innovator Institute at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C
Monday, Apr 15, 2024
Live jazz music, entertainment by talented William S. Hart Union High School District Students, music by Lance Allyn, be treated to happy hour, plus six seated courses - each one created by a different chef from your favorite local restaurants and paired with fabulous wines, local and statewide.

Latest Additions to SCVNews.com
1874 - First train out of L.A. to reach new town of San Fernando; Newhall 2 years later [story]
train tunnel
Hello Auto Group has announced its partnership with the Santa Clarita Veteran Services Collaborative for the second annual Military Spouse Appreciation Event. This event, dedicated to honoring military spouses, will take place on Military Spouse Appreciation Day Friday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Anthony Vince Nail Spa at 24250 Town Center Drive #140, Valencia, CA 91355.
May 10: Second Annual SCV Military Spouse Appreciation Event
The Santa Clarita Artists Association has announced the 2024 scholarship award recipients. These deserving individuals have shown excellence in their high school art education and shared their plans to continue their artistic endeavors.
SCAA Announces 2024 Scholarship Award Honorees
The Valley Industry Association of Santa Clarita is set to ignite innovation and transformation with its VIA Workforce Development Conference 2024 at the Hyatt Regency Valencia on Thursday, May 16. Jorge Marquez, chairman of the Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board, has been added to the list of speakers appearing at the event. He will serve as the opening speaker at the conference.
May 16: VIA Adds County Leader to Workforce Development Speakers List
The city of Santaw Clarita will host the Free To Be Me Festival for its third year at an exciting new location. On Sunday, May 5, from noon to 3 p.m., celebrate Santa Clarita’s special needs communities and their families at West Creek Park, 24247 Village Circle Drive, Valencia, CA 91354.
May 5: ‘Free to Be Me Festival’ at West Creek Park
The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity and its regional partners have held the first of several upcoming rapid response events to urgently connect soon-to-be laid off local workers, impacted by the recent bankruptcy and closure of dozens of local 99 Cents Only Stores, to critical workforce services.
L.A. County Offers Help for Workers of 99 Cents Only Stores
Youth in Los Angeles County foster care as young as 13 can open their own checking and savings accounts without an adult co-owner through the Youth Access Banking program.
Foster Youth Access Banking Program Available in L.A. County
The Santa Clarita City Council will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, April 23 at 6 p.m. The council will meet at City Hall, City Council Chambers, Items on the agenda include: Measure H funding, awarding construction contracts for traffic improvements and updating criteria for speed hump installation or removal.
April 23: City Council to Discuss Measure H Funds, Traffic Improvements
Visit Vasquez Rock Natural Area and Nature Center for a Day at The Rocks, a family fun event and tribal celebration of the Village of Mapipinga. A Day at The Rocks will be held Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
April 27: Day at The Rocks Family Fun Event
Princess Cruises, headquartered in Valencia, and ship builder Fincantieri of Monfalcone, Italy have announced the mutual decision to postpone the delivery of the next Sphere Class ship, Star Princess.
Princess Cruises Postpones Delivery of Star Princess, Inaugural Cruises Cancelled
1880 - Pico Oil Spring Mine Section 2 patented by R.F. Baker and Edward F. Beale [story]
E.F. Beale
The Master's University men's golf team shot a 13-under 275 to finish second at the Golden State Athletic Conference Men's Golf Championships held at Briarwood Country Club in Sun City West, Ariz.
TMU Men’s Golf Places 2nd, Women 5th at GSAC Championships
Join local nonprofit Project Sebastian for an exhilarating day of racing and community support at its Rare Warrior 24 race on Saturday, June 1, at Heritage Park in the heart of Santa Clarita.
June 1: Rare Warrior 24 Race Benefiting Project Sebastian
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station Station deputies will be taking part in the “DEA National Drug Take Back Day,” Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., in front of the SCV Sheriff’s Station, located at 26201 Golden Valley Road.
April 27: Drug Take Back Day at SCV Sheriff’s Station
The College of the Canyons Center for Civic and Community Engagement—in collaboration with COC’s Golden Z Club—invites the community to attend the Nonprofit Community Resource Fair on Tuesday, April 30.
April 30: COC Hosts Nonprofit Community Resource Fair
College of the Canyons made quick work of visiting L.A. Valley College in a shortened 11-3 home victory that came on a day in which the program unveiled its newly named Michele Jenkins Softball Team Room during a pre-game dedication ceremony.
Lady Cougs Outslug L.A. Valley 11-3
For aspiring scientists at The Master’s University, taking up a student research project is no small commitment.
Retired Professor Continues to Mentor Aspiring TMU Scientists
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is warning residents not to use a Vietnamese herbal ointment called “Cao Bôi Trĩ Cây Thầu Dầu” (Castor Oil Hemorrhoid Extract) because it contains lead and can be fatal.
Public Health Urges Residents to Avoid Vietnamese Hemorrhoid Cream
State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond hosted a California Apprenticeship Summit Wednesday to raise awareness of apprenticeship opportunities and career technical education pathways that connect California’s youth to high-wage, high-growth career opportunities.
State Apprenticeship Summit Connects Youth to High-Wage Opportunities
College of the Canyons student-athletes Nichole Muro (softball) and Angelo Aleman (baseball) have been named the COC Athletic Department's Women's and Men's Student-Athletes of the Week for the period running April 8-13.
COC Names Nichole Muro, Angelo Aleman Athletes of the Week
California State Sen. Scott Wilk, R-Santa Clarita, announced Wednesday his bill improving transparency between parents and schools’ sexual education curricula passed out of the Senate Education Committee.
Wilk’s Sex Education Transparency Bill Clears Senate Committee
1945 - Actors Harry & Olive Carey sell Saugus ranch after 29 years; now Tesoro del Valle [story]
Carey Ranch
The 76.6-mile-long Antelope Valley Line has the third-highest ridership in Metrolink’s system with an estimated average of 9,000 passengers daily. However, the uneven terrain and single-tracking along the line in some areas forces trains to travel at a slower speed which results in an estimated travel time of approximately one hour between Santa Clarita and Union Station.
Metrolink to Hold Public Meetings on AV Line Capacity, Improvements
Team Dragon Eyes, affectionately known as TDE, is gearing up to host its highly anticipated Fifth Annual Dragonboat Festival race on Saturday, June 1 at Castaic Lake, Lower Lagoon.
June 1: Team Dragon Eyes to Host Fifth Annual Dragonboat Festival Race
SCVNews.com