Head Lice
Pediculosis (Head Lice)
Peterborough Public Health has information about head lice with links to the Canadian Pediatric Society and a good fact sheets for parents created by Toronto Public Health.
For families who may not able to pay for the shampoo treatments, there is a link below to the OHIP + program for those 24 years of age and under. Medications, including shampoo treatment for head lice can be covered if the family can obtain a prescription from their healthcare provider. Healthcare providers should be able to schedule a virtual visit for this.
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/pro/programs/drugs/ohipplus/
Pediculosis/head lice are tiny bugs that live on the scalp of humans. They do not have wings so they cannot fly or jump. Head lice are not found on cats, dogs or other household pets. The bites from head lice cause itching and scratching. Nits are the eggs that head lice lay. Live eggs range in colour from off-white to dark brown, and are typically half the size of a pin head. Nits stick to the hair and do not fall off if touched. After nits hatch, the shells are white. These empty shells stay on the hair as the hair grows.
Head lice are not a reflection of being unclean. Head lice are a recurring problem which can affect anyone in direct contact. Once lice are present in a classroom or school, it can be difficult to manage without a careful screening process.
Treatment
If your child has head lice, please inform the school immediately. Information and support will be provided regarding treatment.
If your child has head lice, he/she will be sent home to receive treatment. Please consult with a pharmacist, health practitioner, or your family physician to determine the appropriate treatment.
Your child can return to school when all the lice and nits have been removed from his/her hair.
When your child returns to school, he/she will receive a lice re-screening by the Principal, his/her designate, a designated volunteer(s) or professional. If a child is clear of lice and nits, his/her parents will receive a written note permitting the child to return to school. If lice or nits are still present, the Principal, his/her designate, a designated volunteer(s), or professional will provide assistance and suggestions for further treatment.
For additional information, you can read the Board's Policy -316 and Don't Let Head Lice Bug You: Information for Students & Parents or visit the Peterborough Public Health.