What should be done if there are lice in a kindergarten group? - briefly
Notify parents and staff, isolate the affected children, and begin a coordinated treatment using approved pediculicide shampoo for all children and staff; simultaneously wash bedding, clothing, and clean classroom surfaces. Conduct follow‑up inspections after 7‑10 days to verify that the infestation has been eliminated.
What should be done if there are lice in a kindergarten group? - in detail
When a preschool group is found to have head‑lice, immediate, coordinated action is required to protect children, staff, and the wider community.
First, identify the problem. A trained caregiver or health professional should examine any child reported with itching or visible nits. Confirm the presence of live lice before proceeding.
Second, inform all stakeholders. Send a clear notice to parents, detailing the confirmed case, the steps the center will take, and instructions for home treatment. Include contact information for questions. Notify the local health authority if regulations demand reporting.
Third, initiate treatment. Advise families to use an approved pediculicide shampoo or a non‑chemical option such as a silicone‑based lotion, following the product’s exact instructions. Emphasize the need for a second application 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched insects. Provide written guidance on how to comb out nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb.
Fourth, manage the environment. Wash all clothing, bedding, and washable items used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and play mats thoroughly. Do not use insecticides in the facility; mechanical cleaning suffices.
Fifth, monitor and follow up. Conduct a second head inspection of all children 7–10 days after the initial treatment. Record results and communicate any persistent cases to parents promptly. Maintain a log of inspections, communications, and cleaning actions for accountability.
Sixth, implement preventive measures. Establish a routine head‑check policy, ideally weekly, performed by staff trained to spot nits. Educate families about early signs of infestation and proper personal hygiene. Restrict sharing of hats, hair accessories, and headphones. Keep classroom density low enough to reduce direct head‑to‑head contact.
By adhering to these steps—verification, notification, treatment, environmental control, monitoring, and prevention—the kindergarten can contain the outbreak swiftly and minimize disruption to daily activities.