PDF 241 KB
What you need to know about wet combing and chemical treatments for head lice. Includes steps on how to effectively treat using both treatment options
Head lice are rarely a threat to health but their presence can have social, economic, psychological and educational repercussions. The problem is compounded by reports of treatment failure and repeat treatments. Head lice problems in schools are currently occurring at a rate which is causing many children, parents, teachers and healthcare workers a great deal of anxiety.
SA Health in conjunction with other agencies has developed The Management guidelines for the control of head lice in South Australia (PDF 185KB). These guidelines are developed for educators and include:
The following brochures can be printed by schools:
As we transition to digital materials, the ordering of print materials will be reduced. As of 1 October 2019, you will no longer be able to order print materials for this area. Downloadable versions of the materials will be made available on the relevant pages on the SA Health Website.
This document is able to be downloaded and sent to a professional printer. The documents should be set up ready for print. The Printing Instructions (PDF 187KB) will help guide you to be able to print the materials in a similar way to what they are provided by SA Health.
To order printed brochures, please complete the order form (PDF 2.3MB) and email to healthprotectionprograms@sa.gov.au.
Staff in preschools, schools and childcare centres are not responsible for the management of head lice infestation in the community, and are not expected to conduct mass head inspections or to treat children for head lice. You can, support the control and prevention of transmission of public health pests, through a prompt and consistent response to a detected or suspected case.
It is recommended that education and care staff,in line with site policy and or procedures:
If staff detect or suspect head lice in a child, they should:
Department for Education and Child Development schools can seek reimbursement from the department for head lice shampoo provided to school card holders.
If numerous cases of head lice are detected or suspected, staff may arrange head inspections of children in close contact with others with head lice. These inspections should be conducted with discretion and parent/guardian and child/student consent.