head lice (nits)
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
exclude until treatment has commenced — the child can return the same day after the first treatment
symptoms
- •itchy scalp
- •visible lice (small grey-brown insects) in the hair
- •eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts, usually behind ears and at the nape of the neck
- •scratch marks on the scalp
when can your child return to childcare?
the child can return to childcare on the same day that the first treatment is applied. there is no need to wait until all eggs are removed.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
contacts should be checked but are not excluded unless live lice are found
treatment notes for parents
use an approved head lice treatment (conditioner and fine-tooth comb method, or a chemical treatment from the pharmacy). a second treatment is needed 7–10 days later to kill any newly hatched lice. check all household members.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.