* Lice are small insects that live in people's hair and feed on their blood.
* They do not transmit disease and are not associated with poor hygiene.
* Lice glue their eggs, or nits, to the hair follicle and they are not easily combed out.
* Lice typically cannot live more than 48 hours away from a person's head.
* Nits take six to nine days to hatch. About seven days later, they can lay eggs again.
* Children are much more likely to get lice from family members or playmates than classmates at school.
* Lice are spread by the sharing of combs, hats, clothing, barrettes, helmets, headphones and other items.
* Treat the hair with permethrin or pyrethrin products like Nix immediately upon finding lice. Follow directions carefully and do not share doses.
* Treat only those infected with lice.
* Remove nits daily with a lice comb.
* Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
* Seal items that cannot be washed, like stuffed animals and toys, in a plastic bag for two weeks.
* Boil combs, brushes, hair bands and barrettes for five minutes.
* Vacuum carpets and furniture frequently.
Source: California Department of Public Health