Headlice

Unfortunately headlice seem to be doing the rounds once again! 

Please could you all check your child’s hair on a daily basis and take the appropriate action if any lice or eggs are found.  Also, please remind your child to keep his/her hair away from other children’s as this is how they are passed from person to person and it is advisable that girl’s hair should please be worn up in a bobble.

Detailed below are two methods which can be used to treat headlice effectively.  If any of you would like more details or further advice please do not hesitate to contact us here at school.

“Wet combing method”

Head lice may be cleared over a two week period by the following method:

• Wash the hair in the normal way with an ordinary shampoo.
• Using lots of hair conditioner (any sort will do) and while to hair is very wet, comb through the hair from the roots with a ‘head lice comb’.  Make sure the teeth of the comb slot into the hair at the roots with every stroke, and do this over a pale surface, such as a paper towel or the bath.
• Clear the comb of lice between each stroke, by washing/wiping with a paper towel.
• Wet lice find it difficult to escape, and hair which is slippery from conditioner makes it hard for them to keep a grip – so removal with the comb is easier.
• If you find any lice, then repeat this routine every 3-4 days for 2 weeks, so that any lice emerging from the eggs are removed before they can spread.

“Using lotions”

Your health visitor or local pharmacist will be able to recommend lotions and rinses which are specially made to kill lice and their eggs quickly and safely.  The particular treatment changes from time to time, as lice become resistant to one particular product.

The best way to check for lice is as described in the “wet combing method”.

The Friends of Bracebridge Infant and Nursery School ( FBI ) are holding a School Disco for Reception, year 1 and year 2 children.

Please see our Letters Page  in the Parents Section for details.

We have a confirmed case of Scarlet Fever in school and would like to pass on the following information to parents:

What is scarlet fever?

Scarlet fever is a scattered red rash and high temperature caused by bacteria (Group A streptococci). Occasionally these bacteria can cause kidney or heart complications. Prompt treatment with an antibiotic usually prevents these complications. Treatment will also prevent spread to others.

What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

First symptoms include a sore throat, headache, fever, nausea and vomiting.  A scattered red rash that is often most marked in the creases of the joints and over the stomach. It usually blanches (goes white) when pressed on. The skin may feel rough to the touch, sometimes described as feeling like sandpaper. Someone with scarlet fever will have evidence of a streptococcal infection somewhere, usually in the throat or sometimes in the skin. Children will feel tired and unwell and may have swollen glands in their neck.

What should I do if I think my child has it?

If your child develops any of these symptoms, please refer to your family doctor or NHS 111 for advice.

If my child has scarlet fever what should I do?

The doctor will prescribe an antibiotic for your child. It is important that your child takes the full course of medicine.

Can my child stay in school?

Your child can return to school when he/she is well and has finished one full day of antibiotic treatment.

What can I do to prevent spread of infection at home?

The bacteria are spread through contact with nose and mouth secretions so:

• Wash hands thoroughly after wiping nose.

• Wash hands thoroughly before preparing food.

• Wash dishes well in hot soapy water.

• Do not share cups, straws, spoons, eating utensils etc.

• Do not share toothbrushes.

Thank you for giving this your attention. Your family doctor, NHS 111 or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk will be able to answer any further questions that you might have concerning scarlet fever.