Head lice is a complex, unappealing issue that can be stressful, disruptive and sometimes frustrating for the people involved, and expensive for families. It is often surrounded by misinformation about what is and isn’t effective by way of treatment, and misinformation about the nature of head lice themselves.
The detection and treatment of head lice is the responsibility of families. Read more information about the treatment for head lice.
Education Queensland recognises that the occurrence of head lice is the most common insect infestation in humans throughout the world.
Education Queensland acknowledges that although head lice infestation may affect people of any age, nationality, gender or socio-economic status, in Queensland, infestation occurs mainly in children of primary school age. It is seen as much a social issue as a health or educational issue, and the way that it is approached can have significant influence on a student's emotional, social and educational development.
Parents have the prime responsibility for the detection and treatment of head lice on their children.
Schools take into account that the main route of transmission for head lice is head-to-head contact and promote general measures that help in the prevention of infestations.
Students suspected of having live head lice or eggs present in their hair are not removed from class or school. Such students are provided with information to take home to their families and a letter requesting immediate treatment be commenced.