Dear Parents/Guardians:
This is to inform you that there have been several MORE cases of
pediculosis (head lice) identified in various classrooms at Fishkill
Plains. During the next several weeks,
we strongly recommend that you continue to inspect your child's head
very carefully for signs of pediculosis! Look particularly in the
area behind the ears and on the nape of the neck. Nits look like
dandruff, but are tightly bound to the hair. It seems that it is not
uncommon for treatments to be unsuccessful because of incorrect use or
because the lice may be resistant to the chemical in the shampoo!
Please call your pediatrician for effective treatment suggestions and
to gain more advice on how to deal with HEAD LICE INFECTATIONS
research the following website: http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/infections/common/lice.html
Every year, millions of children get head lice. Contrary to popular
belief, lice actually prefer to live on clean heads. It can happen to
any child - so having head lice is nothing to be embarrassed about.
The more information about head lice you know, the better prepared
you'll be to completely eliminate lice from your family and home.
Head lice can be present at any time - but they are often spotted by
the school nurse when children are back in school after the summer and
December breaks. When a head lice infestation is confirmed, a school
note is given to children to alert their parents. Children who have
head lice are usually excused from the school until the infestation is
gone.
We aim to provide basic facts you need to know about lice: a.) be
sure to routinely check for head lice, b.) properly adhere to the
treatment directions when treating head lice so they are completely
eliminated and how to help avoid future infestations.
Eggs are laid by the female louse. They are about the size of a poppy
seed and are difficult to see because their color easily blends in
with the infested child's hair. Eggs are laid near the root of the
hair and are attached with a waterproof, glue-like substance that
can't be washed or blown away.
If you find any indication that this condition exists, please
telephone our school nurse, Mrs. Flaherty, at the Fishkill Plains'
Health Office at (845) 227-1770 ext.111.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Sylvia A. Epstein, Principal