There are certain times of year when pediculosis (head lice) begins to be a problem: autumn, after school holidays when families travel and in the spring. This is not to say, that these are the only times when lice can occur. Head lice are not a public hazard, as they do not cause illness, but they are a nuisance. For those of you who have dealt with lice at home, you know that it is a major inconvenience. Having pediculosis (head lice) does not mean that a person is not clean. In fact, lice appear to prefer hair that is clean.
To prevent head lice from becoming a problem at our school we all need to work together.
- Please check your child’s head on a regular basis for lice or nits.
- If you do find lice or nits, you must contact the office so that we can notify other parents in your child’s class to keep a special watch for any signs of head lice.
- A student’s readmission to school is contingent upon the Parent/Guardian submitting a completed and signed “Pediculosis Treatment Form” communicating to the Principal that treatment for pediculosis (head lice) has been administered.
- Tips to prevent head lice: discourage the sharing of brushes, combs, hair accessories, sport caps, hats and helmets, wear long hair tied back or in a ponytail.
More information on the identification, treatment and prevention of pediculosis (head lice) from the Canadian Pediatric Society (http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/headlice) and Toronto Public Health (Toronto.ca/health) is available on the school’s website.
A hard copy of the information posted on the school’s website will be provided by the Principal/school if requested by the Parent/Guardian.
Please see the two attached fact sheets.The Facts of Lice