September is here and yes, you know what that means! It is the start of National Head Lice Prevention Month. While school is back in session, the head lice are back in full force as well and happily invading our children’s heads and making their new claims on new homes.
The National Pediculosis Association (NPA) states that “CombFirst!, our national head lice prevention campaign urges communities to be informed, prepared and cooperative.The goal is to help families and entire communities work together to control head lice calmly and effectively and without exposures to risky pesticides. The NPA and the American Academy of Pediatrics agree that children’s exposures to pesticides should be limited as much as possible.”
The goal behind this campaign is to educate our community and use it as a public health opportunity. We want to erase the negative stigmas attached to lice and learn to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to head lice, especially within our community schools. The NPA also states that
“the mentality that head lice are only a nuisance keeps children unnecessarily vulnerable and chronically infested.”
Being proactive and doing weekly comb checks is so important when it comes to lice. Early detection is key. Accurate identification of head lice and their nits/eggs is also a huge part of the problem and complete removal of all lice and the nits as well. Parents have the right to voice their concerns and opinions when it comes to head lice and they do have a choice when it comes to treatment options as well. Be informed when it comes to head lice and know your options. Know that there is a difference between the professional grade lice/nit combs available and those available at the drug stores. Make sure that you know that there is nothing more effective than that of combing and manual lice removal.
Clients often tell me this is the worst thing to experience in life. They tell me this is their biggest fear. I tell them I believe they are wrong. As a parent of a special needs child, I explain to them they need to put things in perspective. I agree at first it might be overwhelming and to some a bit scary. However, with the proper knowledge, education and guidance, you will get through head lice. And…your family will probably get it again. It is just a fact of life. And as a parent you are close to your children, you love your children and you should show your affection. You are a close “nit” family and I am sure that you would not want it any other way.
As always, feel free to contact us with any further questions or help you may need.
Best,
Lauren
Potomac Lice Lady
240-390-6487
