subject: Head Lice Information - 5 Head Lice Facts For You [print this page] You thought it would never happen to you but it did: your kids and your home have head lice. Don't panic just yet because here is the head lice information you need given in 5 easy facts to help you solve this parasitic problem.
FACT 1: They're not THAT dangerous
Unlike the mosquito, these critters don't spread diseases. They are known to cause excessive itching but the damage is usually done by the resulting scratching, not the insects themselves.
FACT 2: They spread through CONTACT
They are wingless and can't jump. They spread through direct contact with a person who has them or by using something that has come into contact with such a person. Instructing your kids about sharing hair products or clothing can help prevent a future infestation.
FACT 3: The real-deal with shampoos
Before you go out to the pharmacy you should know that the commercially available anti-lice shampoos are usually loaded with pesticides. These are chemicals designed to kill living things going on your children and family. This may not be for you.
FACT 4: Home Remedies can work!
Home remedies, tried and tested upon years of experience, passed on from countless generations of infestation sufferers, can work for you. Try using vinegar and Vaseline to smother and kill the offending insects and their eggs (called nits). Plus, you need to buy this most-essential of tools: the nit comb. Combing through your kid's hair and manually pulling out the insects and the nits is the best way to ensure that no survivors can restart the infestation you cleared out with your remedy.
FACT 5: Treat your Home
You have to check out your home to ensure no insects survived. Although it is a parasite, a louse can live up to 2 days without a host, waiting to restart the whole thing if allowed. Give special attention to things that come into contact with your kids and family: pillows, beddings, clothing, hair apparel, plush toys like teddies, and even your couch. Also, your car seats can be hiding places for these little scamps so be sure to vacuum and clean out any car you drove in while the infestation was still being treated.
I'm not going to lie to you, it won't be easy to remove every insect and nit from your home but with the proper information, a little effort, and a whole lot of persistence you'll be rid of these parasites for good.
