As children return to school, they might bring home more than just homework. Lauren Salzberg, known as the “Potomac Lice Lady,” offers valuable advice for parents dealing with lice.
Understanding the Spread
“All it takes is a few seconds for that bug to crawl from one head to the next,” Salzberg explains. She treats up to 20 people daily at her Gaithersburg salon, attributing the rise in cases to changes in lice policies. Previously, students with lice were sent home immediately. However, current guidelines from the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics allow children to stay in class until the end of the day and return the next day if treatment has begun (link).
The Controversy
Salzberg disagrees with this policy, comparing it to other contagious illnesses like pink eye or the flu, where children are sent home. Lice, which feed on human blood, spread through direct contact with infested hair. Adult lice can live for a month, laying up to 10 eggs daily.
Effective Treatment Tips
After 15 years in business, Salzberg has perfected her approach. “You can win the war on lice, but you have to have the right weapon,” she says. She advises against drugstore combs, which often miss eggs, leading to re-infestation. Instead, use a professional-grade metal comb with tighter teeth, available online. Salzberg also suggests that schools provide lice combs as part of school supplies.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of lice, Salzberg recommends wearing hair up in a bun or braid. This simple step can help prevent lice from spreading among children.
By following these expert tips, parents can effectively manage and prevent lice infestations, ensuring a healthier environment for their children.
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