'Head Lice 101' Program Introduced At Chicago Area Schools

July 31, 2013 (PRLEAP.COM) Health News
Nit Free Noggins teaches parents and students the basics of lice detection

CHICAGO, July 31, 2013 – Nit Free Noggins, an acclaimed lice removal center in Chicago has developed "Head Lice 101" classes that are taught to parents and students in schools. These classes prepare families to conduct head check-ups and teach how to recognize lice and nits when they are present.

"Moms come to me in tears because they didn't realize their child had head lice," said Carrie Madej, the owner of Nit Free Noggins. "They think they are bad moms because they didn't recognize the symptoms, thinking it was just dry skin. Teaching about lice in schools will help parents feel more prepared to deal with lice if it shows up."

Teaching about head lice in a school environment is particularly important because lice are most common in elementary school children. Also, lice-and especially nits-are commonly mistaken for dandruff. The most conclusive diagnosis comes from finding an adult louse.

Characteristics of Lice

Lice have three stages of development: egg, nymph, and adult.

Egg: Lice eggs, also called nits, are oval-shaped and cling tightly to hair shafts. They are usually located no more than ¼ inch above the base of the scalp.

Nymph: Nymphs are adolescent lice. Nymphs take about 9-12 days to become full adults. Like adults, they survive by consuming blood from the human scalp.

Adult: Adult lice can live on a human head for up to 30 days with no treatment. A full-grown louse is no bigger than a sesame seed.

Knowing the different stages of development as well as the various colors and symptoms can help parents recognize a lice infestation for what it really is instead of dandruff, dry skin, or any other mistaken diagnosis.

Symptoms of Head Lice

  • An itchy scalp
  • A feeling of something squirming on the head
  • Red marks or scabs caused from frequent scratching

  • Identifying lice comes with persistence and patience. Nit Free Noggins offers head checks to families who are unsure of their own checks.

    About Nit Free Noggins

    Nit Free Noggins is a family-owned and operated, chemical-free lice treatment center based in Chicago, with another location in Wheeling, Illinois. It offers an effective alternative to shampoos and other chemical treatments, which are becoming increasingly ineffective. The 30-minute sessions use AirAllé technology, which utilizes controlled heat and airflow to dehydrate lice and nits. After the treatment, certified technicians use a fine lice comb to remove the lice and eggs. A follow-up session is included to ensure the treatment worked. The entire process is FDA approved and is 100% guaranteed by Nit Free Noggins.

    To learn more about Nit Free Noggins visit www.nitfreenoggins.com.

    Press Contact:
    Carrie Madej
    Nit Free Noggins
    (847) 573-9600
    nfn@me.com