Back to school is always greeted with new books, new clothes and all too often an unwanted pest known as head lice.  

There are many common misconceptions when it comes to head lice.  One misconception is, "it must mean one is dirty".  Ironically, it is just the opposite.  Head lice appreciate clean hair. Here are a  few noteworthy items of information to better prepare yourself in case of an outbreak.  

• Lice do not have hind legs, and do not jump or fly.  
• Lice can live whenever there is direct contact with the hair.  They can appear on anything from brushes, to hats, to sports helmets. 
• The best way to prevent getting head lice is to not share these items with others, especially if there is a noted outbreak in school. 
• Make sure to vacuum regularly if someone in the house has head lice.  
• If an individual is contaminated with lice, they should  sleep with a shower cap on to minimize any further contamination.  It wouldn't be a bad idea for everyone in the home to wear a shower cap to minimize any further exposure of the lice. 
•  Remember, lice survive on some human blood.  They usually cannot last longer than 24 hours with out a host.  If you have been notified of an outbreak in your school, talk to your child and communicate the importance of not sharing the items noted above. 
• Check your childs scalp.  Take small parts of the hair, and look closely down to the scalp and two inches down the hair shaft.   The nits may look small and oval like small rice and can not be easily removed. 
• Lice treatments are easily attained at any drug store.  
• There is no need to panic, just be diligent when removing the lice and be sure to check for them often!