Publication Type: | Journal Article |
Year of Publication: | 2005 |
Authors: | C. M. Brenton |
Journal: | Brit. Med. J. |
Volume: | 331 |
Issue: | 7513 |
Pagination: | 405 |
Date Published: | 2005 |
ISBN Number: | 1468-5833 |
Keywords: | animals, Australia, hair, health care, humans, Lice Infestations/prevention & control, Pediculus, scalp dermatoses |
Abstract: | EDITOR—Lwegaba argues that shaving can be a safer treatment for head lice than insecticides.1 However, shaving for head lice is far from ideal in children.Western Australia's Department of Health does not recommend shaving hair to remove head lice. Shaving is only a short term solution. It is unnecessary (other effective treatments are available), it can distress the child, and it is often the result of despairing parents receiving out of date advice. A more effective approach is to involve parents and other school community members in establishing a substantial ongoing head lice management programme in schools that provides accurate, research based advice on screening for and treating head lice and helps to interrupt the cycle of reinfestation that can be perpetuated in school communities. |
Shaving for head lice is unnecessary and distressing
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