What should be done if lice are found in a school? - briefly
Notify parents, isolate the affected students, and launch a coordinated treatment program that follows health‑department protocols. Provide prevention education and schedule follow‑up inspections to confirm that the infestation has been eliminated.
What should be done if lice are found in a school? - in detail
When an infestation is identified, the school must act immediately to contain the problem and protect all students. First, the staff member who discovers the lice should inform the designated health coordinator or school nurse, providing details about the affected class and the number of students involved. The coordinator records the incident in the school’s health log and notifies the administration.
The administration contacts the parents or guardians of the identified students, explaining the situation, outlining recommended treatment options, and requesting confirmation that treatment has been completed. Communication includes clear instructions on the use of approved over‑the‑counter or prescription products, the necessity of repeat treatment after 7–10 days, and guidance on laundering clothing and bedding at high temperatures.
Simultaneously, the school initiates a classroom‑wide screening. Trained personnel examine each child’s hair using a fine‑toothed comb, documenting any findings. Students who test positive receive the same notification and treatment guidance as those initially reported. Children undergoing treatment remain in class if they are symptom‑free; however, the school may temporarily separate them if policies require.
To prevent further spread, the school enforces the following measures:
- Mandatory daily head checks for at least two weeks after the first case.
- Prohibition of sharing personal items such as hats, hair accessories, and brushes.
- Routine cleaning of classroom surfaces, chairs, and lockers with appropriate disinfectants.
- Instruction for staff on proper detection techniques and privacy‑respectful handling of affected students.
After the outbreak resolves, the school reviews its policies. It updates written guidelines, conducts staff training sessions, and distributes educational materials to families about early detection and effective treatment. Documentation of the incident, actions taken, and outcomes is archived for future reference and compliance with local health regulations.