Dear Parents,
Recently a few cases of Pediculosis (head lice)have been reported at
Brookside School.  The most important thing to know about headlice is that
ANYONE can get them, and that, if your child does, it is absolutely essential
to inform the school nurse, Mrs. Goodwin and the parents of his/her
playmates. 
If your child comes home with head lice, DON'T PANIC.  Millions of school
children contract head lice each year. Children play in close contact with
each other. A simple exchange of hats, clothing, brushes, combs, and other
personal articles can result in transmission of head lice from one child to
another.  Lice can be easily and effectively treated.  You should ask your
phartmacist for an effective head lice shampoo or ask your doctor for advice.

1. Check all members of the family for lice and their eggs.  Lice are small
grayish-tan wingless insects.  Lice lay eggs called nits.
2. Nits are firmly attached to the hair shafts, close to the scalp and are
much easier to see than live lice.  They are small white specks which are
usually found at the nape of the neck and behind the ears. 
3. Apply the lice treatment to all family members, following instructions
carefully.  It is recommended that everyone in the family be treated to
avaoid any oversights.
4. After shampooing, remove nits with a fine tooth comb (nit combs are
provided with most head lice shampoos.) Application of warm water with
vinegar (1:1) or clear warm water may help nit removal.  Nits may need to be
removed with fiongernails or tweezers. All nits must be removed before
returning to school.
5. Use hot water and detergent to wash sheets, pillowcases and clothing (at
least 20 minutes).
6. Hot dry or dry clean blankets, bedspreads, hats, and sleeping bags; or
seal in a plastic trash bag for at least two weeks.
7. Soak combs, brushes, head bands and barrettes in the treatment shampoo or
hot water for at least 10 minutes or wash in the dishwasher.