Health Tip: Help Keep Head Lice From Coming Back

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(HealthDay News) -- Head lice are small, wingless parasitic insects that feast on tiny amounts of blood sucked from the human scalp. They don't spread disease, but the itchy bites they leave behind can trigger misery and infection.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions to help get rid of lice:

• Wash any recently worn clothing or recently used linens in water of at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Follow with 20 minutes in the dryer on a very hot cycle.
• Dryclean any linens, stuffed animals or clothes that can't be washed. Or, seal them in an airtight bag for at least two weeks.
• Use a vacuum to clean upholstery or carpet inside your home or car.
• Discard combs, brushes, barrettes, hair elastics and other hair accessories used by a person with lice infestation. Or, soak them for one hour in alcohol, very hot water or medicated shampoo.

-- Diana Kohnle

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