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December 13, 2019
Dear Ravensworth Families,
This letter is to inform you that we are aware of isolated cases of lice. We are informing you of this so that you can monitor your own child.
Currently we are taking several measures:
- Working with Denise Mizeski, Fairfax County Health Department School Public Health Nurse and monitoring the number of cases being reported
- Nightly wiping down all surfaces in classrooms
- Removing rugs from several classrooms
- Students placing jackets in their backpacks
During Winter Break we plan to:
- Lower the building temperature in an effort to kill any nits
- Deep cleaning all classrooms
We are asking that you please continue to check your child’s head. Head lice are small insects that are generally found close to the scalp and primarily around the back of the neck and ears, the adult louse resembles a sesame seed. Nits are the egg (or the empty casing), and are silver to tan in color. Because they are glued to the hair, nits must be removed manually, usually with a special comb. The number and location of nits on the hair follicle are useful in determining when live lice have been effectively eliminated.
There are several effective over-the-counter products and prescription products that kill lice on the head. Please be aware that some home remedies can be effective while others can be harmful. For eliminating lice in the home, denying lice their food source for two weeks (bagging up non-washable items or closing off rooms) is an essential component for success. Heat also kills lice on objects. Recently used items that can tolerate water can be cleared of lice by washing in hot water over 130˚F, placing them in a hot dryer for 20 minutes, dry cleaning, or ironing.
A recent statement of the American Academy of Pediatricians said that mass screenings in schools are not performed. Our health clinic aid is monitoring the number of cases reported to us. If you have questions regarding these recommendations, please contact your physician or the Fairfax County Health Department School Public Health Nurse, Denise Mizeski at 703-426-3600. Our health clinic aid, Paula Condit can also be reached at the same number or email at PACondit@fcps.edu More resources and information can be found at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/student-safety-and-wellness/school-health-services/lice-treatment-and-prevention
Thank you for working together with us. If there are any changes we will share that information with you.
Sincerely,
Erika Aspuria
Principal
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