PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS: Head Lice In Schools

Q. What is a PCO’s role in a head lice infestation at a school? (D.M.)

A. A school problem that crops up every year is head lice. Most recently there has been quite a discussion on a list server for IPM in schools. Because the discussion has been somewhat controversial, I’ve included some information about head lice so that PCOs can be prepared for questions.

Head lice are treated as a personal problem in most school systems and PCOs should not be involved in any pesticide applications for them. However, you should be prepared to offer information or recommendations when it is requested.

There are several formulations of pesticide products that can be used by parents. These products are usually in the form of solutions, shampoos and creams applied topically. There are also several "natural" products recommended for head lice control — everything from olive oil to a product called Lice B Gone (a soap that attacks the glue that secures the nit to the hair, thus making it easier to remove).

Schools usually have a policy that states the child cannot return until they are nit free — free of eggs from the lice. Here is where the rubber hits the road.

Nit removal is time consuming, especially on children with long hair. Pesticide shampoos have to be used effectively and parents still have to use a nit comb to remove nits. Natural products, like olive oil, facilitate combing but still the combing has to be done effectively. Even the Lice B Gone product needs parental attention. The bottom line is that all of these methods work (although there is always a discussion about pesticide-resistant lice), but parent education is necessary.

Educational material should discussed, especially the time involved in treating and removing nits. Simple-to-follow pictures and a list of expected results should be developed to explain the process. If you are involved in this discussion, information is available from NPMA or the Handbook of Pest Control by Arnold Mallis. Make it available to schools or develop distribution material.

The author is president of George Rambo Consulting Services, Herndon, Va. Fax questions to him at 703/709-9637 or via e-mail at grambo@pctonline.com.