Head lice are a constant problem in our region. Pre-school and school children are most susceptible to infestation but adults can be affected too.
Exaggerated personal hygiene or preventative measures are no protection. Important aspects are:
Look careful y and be aware of the risk of infestation
If the worst comes to the worst act responsibly and reasonably
Lice are mainly spread by head to head contact. The 2-3mm long insects can move quickly but are unable to jump or fly. As a rule they are passed on from one person to another by close physical contact in school, gym etc, or at home. It is unusual for them to be spread by coming into contact with objects (scarves, soft toys, hats, articles of clothing etc.)
The light-brown lice or larvae are very difficult to see with the naked eye. Use a magnifying glass to be absolutely sure. They tend to be found on the warmer parts of the scalp – behind the ears, above the neck or under the fringe. The nits (eggs) are easier to make out and are found in the same areas as the lice. These whitish, oval-shaped structures are glued to the hair by the lice after laying and can be combed off easily.
I’ve discovered lice or nits – what should I do?
See your doctor! Any prescribed medication should be taken adhering closely to the
instructions. Dosage and duration are fundamental to a successful treatment. The fol owing
products have been approved by the Ministry of the Environment and the Robert-Koch-
Al ethrin (z. B. Jacutin Pedicul Spray®)
Medizinprodukte (z. B. Nyda L®, Jacutin Pedicul Fluid®, Mosquito® Läuseshampoo)
These products are very effective in eradicating lice and their larvae but not as effective in dealing with nits. These should be removed with a nit-comb after the initial treatment, additionally rinsing with a luke-warm vinegar solution (1 part 6% vinegar 2 part water) and
letting the hair soak for 10min. The whole procedure should be repeated 8-10 days after the initial treatment to minimize the risk of a renewed infestation.
. People who have had contact with the infested person Family and people who have come into contact with the patient should be checked to avoid transmission or a renewed infection of the person under treatment.
. Surroundings In addition to the above the fol owing hygiene tips are recommended
thorough cleaning of al combs, hair brushes and clothes brushes used towels, clothes sheets etc should be changed and washed at 60° or hotter Al textile surfaces in the house (and car!) should be vacuum cleaned
For things that cannot be washed at 60° the fol owing alternatives are recommended:
• Spray with a suitable product (e.g. Jacutin N)
• Store in a tightly closed plastic bag for 2 weeks
• Treat with hot, dry air (min 45° for 1 hour)
Are there any legal requirements I have to comply with?
§ 34 of the Prevention of Infection laws states that people affected by head lice are not
al owed to visit public institutions. It is the duty of parents to inform the kindergarten or school
etc. about the infestation. The institution informs in turn the local public health authority and
(anonymously) the parents/guardians of classmates etc.
According to the Prevention of Infection laws an affected person cannot return to a public
institution until a doctor has given him/her a clean bil of health and there is no longer a risk
of spreading. This means that children are al owed to visit a public institution only after a
successful treatment (supervised by a doctor), removal of al lice and nits and a thorough
cleaning of the home has been carried out. A doctor’s sick note is only required after a
The public health authority records the number of infections whilst advising and supporting
public institutions and affected citizens. It acts as contact during cases of increased
Swift action is required to minimize the spreading of head lice for the sake of us al . Parents
should be aware of their heightened responsibility. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact your Public Health Authority: Tel.: 06172/999-5870, -5872, -5874, -5875
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