• All students should be screened the first week students return from vacations

• Perform the head check in good light-sunlight or a bright light

• Use a magnifying glass and a metal nit comb with long teeth (not plastic)

• Part the hair into sections

• Comb through all sections of hair

• Carefully and systematically examine:

• The crown of the head, nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the scalp

• Clean the comb out over a white tissue to see if lice or nits were collected.

The child should be reassured that the lice are treatable and that he or she will be okay.

The common misconception that people who get lice are dirty should be corrected; anyone can get lice, and lice actually prefer clean hair.

The problem should be promptly dealt with so the child will be relieved of the uncomfortable symptoms and can return to school without falling behind.

This provides an excellent opportunity for children to learn about disease prevention, self-care, and responsibility.