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HEAD LICE AWARENESS

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Head lice are common in BC communities. Although they are a bother, head lice are not a health risk.

Head lice spread quickly by close, head-to-head contact. Lice cannot live on furniture or carpet, and they cannot jump or fly. There may be few or no symptoms, but itching may occur.

You can help by:

  • Checking your child’s head with the wet combing method of detection once a week throughout the year.
  • Review the pamphlet How to Get Ride of Head Lice Wet Combing, available online, at your school and Public Health Unit.
  • Encouraging your child to wear their hair tied back.
  • Treating if you notice live lice on your child’s head.
  • Reminding family and friends about the importance of routine head checks, using the wet combing method.

For more information:

  • Your local Public Health Unit
  • Read the HealthLink BC File on Head Lice HealthLink BC File #06 Head Lice

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