Online and in the shops: Lice prevention

Pharmacists are urging parents to check their children for head lice every week, now that school has started.

Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) vice-president, Kathy Maher, says: “While lice aren’t dangerous, they are extremely contagious and their bites may cause a child’s scalp to become itchy and inflamed.”

Infestations are common in children aged four to 11, but early detection reduces the spread of infection. To check for head lice, wet comb conditioned hair. Researchers at the James Cook University, in Queensland, say tea tree is effective in the treatment and prevention of head lice. Faith In Nature tea tree shampoo and conditioner are deep-cleansing, anti-bacterial, antiseptic, anti-viral and anti-fungal and are available from health stores. Multi-packs, 2x400ml, €13.27, and 5L, €77.25, are available from www.econatural.ie.