ROSEMONT, Ill., Aug. 13, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Head lice affect about six to 12 million children, ages three to 12, each year in the United States. Although head lice are not known to carry disease, dermatologists from the American Academy of Dermatology say an infestation can cause some uncomfortable symptoms. Knowing how to spot the signs of head lice early can help prevent the infestation from spreading.
“Although anyone can get head lice, children in preschool and elementary school are the most at risk,” says board-certified dermatologist Sarah Lynn Chamlin, MD, FAAD. “However, contrary to popular belief, head lice cannot jump from person to person; they have to crawl. For this reason, transmission can often be prevented by not sharing personal items, such as hats, scarves, coats, hair accessories, brushes and combs.”
To help parents find head lice early, Dr. Chamlin recommends the following tips:
“If you find lice in your child’s hair or on any object in your home, alert your child’s school, daycare or babysitter so that your child’s classmates and other contacts can be checked,” says Dr. Chamlin. “There are many at-home treatments available for head lice at your local drug or grocery store. However, see a board-certified dermatologist if you have any questions or need a recommendation for an effective treatment.”
These tips are demonstrated in “How to Find Head Lice Early,” a video posted to the AAD website and YouTube channel. This video is part of the AAD’s “Video of the Month” series, which offers tips people can use to properly care for their skin, hair and nails.
To find a board-certified dermatologist in your area, visit aad.org/findaderm.
Contact
Nicole Dobkin, (847) 240-1746, ndobkin@aad.org
Cristina Mutchler, (847) 240-1713, cmutchler@aad.org
More Information
Head lice signs, symptoms and treatment
Ask a Dermatologist: Are head lice dangerous?
Ask a Dermatologist: What is the best treatment for head lice?
About the AAD
Headquartered in Rosemont, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology, founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 20,000 physicians worldwide, the AAD is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the AAD at (888) 462-DERM (3376) or aad.org. Follow the AAD on Facebook (American Academy of Dermatology), Twitter (@AADskin), Instagram (@AADskin1), or YouTube (AcademyofDermatology).
To view this release in a media-rich format, go to: https://aad.new-media-release.com/2019/head_lice/