Head lice

Question 1

For head lice, state:

- Characteristics of causative agent (5)

Answer 1

• Tiny insects (1-2mm)
• Tan to greyish white in colour
• Do not have wings or legs
• A female louse lays three to eight eggs (nits) per day
• Live up to 30 days

Question 2

For head lice, state:

- How it is spread

Answer 2

• Direct contact is required for from person to person

Question 3

For head lice, state:

• Description of lice (2)
• General signs and symptoms (3)

Answer 3

Description of lice:
• Are white and stick very firmly to the hair shaft
• Hatch in 7 -10 days and mature in 7 days

General signs and symptoms:
• Itchy scalp
• Eggs appear as white specks stuck near the base of the hairs
• Lice (1-2 mm) may be found crawling on the scalp

Question 4

For head lice, state:

• Prevention (3)
• Treatment (5)

Answer 4

Prevention:
• No preventive product available
• Tying long hair back
• Check weekly for lice

Treatment:
• Topical insecticide (two applications)
• ‘Conditioner and comb’ method
• Do not need to keep child home if head lice management ongoing
• Family, friends and classroom contacts should be examined and treated if infested
• Clothing/bedding should be washed in hot water