What to do to avoid getting lice? - briefly
Maintain personal hygiene, avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, and frequently inspect hair for nits. Use a fine-toothed comb after washing and keep hair secured in group environments.
What to do to avoid getting lice? - in detail
Head lice spread primarily through direct head‑to‑head contact, but they can also be transferred via shared personal items such as combs, hats, scarves, pillows, and hair accessories. Reducing the risk requires consistent practices that limit exposure to these vectors.
- Keep hair clean and regularly combed, especially after activities that increase sweating. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on dry hair at least once a week to remove any nits that may have been deposited.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hair ties, helmets, headphones, and other objects that touch the scalp. Store personal items in separate, labeled containers.
- Encourage children to wear personal headgear (hats, caps, scarves) that is not exchanged with peers. If communal headwear is used, clean it with hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) or a high‑heat dryer cycle after each use.
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and stuffed toys regularly in hot water and tumble dry on high heat. For items that cannot be heated, seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to starve any lice or nits.
- Perform routine scalp inspections, focusing on the nape of the neck and behind the ears. Early detection allows prompt removal before an infestation spreads.
- Educate children about the importance of not touching each other’s heads and about the risks of swapping personal items during play or school activities.
- When traveling, inspect hair after using public transportation, attending events, or staying in shared accommodations. Pack a lice comb and a small bottle of lice‑preventive spray containing dimethicone for quick treatment if necessary.
- Follow school or daycare policies regarding lice screening and reporting. Promptly notify authorities if a case is identified to enable coordinated containment measures.
Implementing these steps creates multiple barriers that significantly lower the likelihood of a head‑lice outbreak. Consistent vigilance and personal hygiene remain the most effective defenses.