Back-to-School Head Lice: What Parents Need to Know

New backpacks, packed lunches & a message from school about head lice. Some parts of back-to-school season are more welcome than others.

If your child brings home lice, take a breath. There’s no need for embarrassment and your pharmacist can help you work out what to do next.

First, leave the blame behind

Head lice can affect anyone. They are not a sign of poor hygiene, and they do not spread disease. They move mainly through direct head-to-head contact, crawling from one person’s hair to another. They cannot jump or fly.

Know what to look for

An itchy scalp can be a clue, but some children have no symptoms. Check the hair in good light, paying particular attention behind the ears & at the nape of the neck.

Look for live, moving lice and tiny eggs, called nits, attached to hair near the scalp. Finding nits alone does not necessarily mean there is an active infestation. If you are unsure what you are seeing, ask a pharmacist before starting treatment.

How your pharmacist can help

As of July 1, 2026, Ontario pharmacists can assess head lice & prescribe treatment when appropriate as part of their expanded minor ailments scope.

An assessment helps determine whether pharmacy treatment is suitable or another healthcare provider is needed. A prescription is not automatic, and services vary by pharmacy. Contact your local Boggio pharmacy to ask about assessment availability.

Treat carefully & follow through

Use a lice treatment only when live lice have been found. Check other household members, too.

Follow the product instructions carefully, including how long to leave it on and whether a second application is needed. Continued itching does not always mean treatment has failed. Avoid relying on home remedies such as mayonnaise or tea tree oil, which lack good evidence of effectiveness.

Ask your pharmacist which product suits your child’s age & health needs, how to use a lice comb, and what to do if live lice persist after treatment. Mention any scalp sores or infection.

Keep the response practical

Let your child’s school & close contacts know so families can check for lice. Avoid sharing hats, brushes & hair accessories, and encourage children to avoid head-to-head contact.

Focus cleaning on items that recently touched the head, such as pillowcases, hats & brushes. There is no need to spray your home with pesticides.

Niagara Region says there is no medical reason to exclude children because of lice or nits, but individual schools may have their own procedures. Check with your child’s school.

Questions? Start with Boggio

Back-to-school routines are busy enough without guessing your way through head lice treatment. Contact your local Boggio Family of Pharmacies for advice on treatment options & your next steps.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized health recommendations.