If there are lice in a kindergarten, what should be done? - briefly
Isolate the affected children, notify their parents, and begin a coordinated treatment that includes medicated lice shampoo, fine‑tooth combing, and thorough cleaning of bedding, toys, and classroom surfaces. Conduct follow‑up examinations after 7‑10 days to confirm eradication and prevent reinfestation.
If there are lice in a kindergarten, what should be done? - in detail
When head‑lice infestations are identified in a preschool, immediate, coordinated action is required to protect children, staff, and families.
First, confirm the presence of lice through visual inspection by trained personnel or a health professional. Document the number of affected children and the date of detection.
Second, inform parents promptly. Provide clear instructions on treatment options, such as over‑the‑counter pediculicides, prescription medications, or alternative methods, and specify the correct application schedule. Emphasize the need for repeat treatment 7–10 days after the initial dose to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
Third, advise caregivers to:
- Wash infested child’s clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (≥ 55 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and toys; discard disposable items.
Fourth, implement classroom‑level measures:
- Separate affected children from the group until the first treatment is completed.
- Conduct a systematic head‑check of all children and staff; treat any additional cases immediately.
- Increase awareness among teachers to recognize early signs and report promptly.
Fifth, schedule a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after the initial treatment cycle. Confirm eradication before allowing children to return to regular activities. Record outcomes and communicate results to parents.
Finally, establish preventive protocols:
- Incorporate routine head‑checks into daily health assessments.
- Educate families on recognizing lice and proper personal hygiene.
- Limit sharing of hats, hair accessories, and headgear.
- Maintain a log of any future incidents to identify patterns.
Adhering to these steps minimizes disruption, reduces transmission risk, and ensures a safe environment for all participants.