Concussions
Concussions can happen to any athlete — male or female — in any sport. Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury, caused by a blow or jolt to the head that can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. We invite parents to learn more by clicking on the fact sheet link below.
Learn more about concussions and traumatic brain injuries.
Head Lice
Lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and crawl through hair. Lice need human blood to live, and they die within 24 hours if they cannot feed. Lice lay eggs (nits) that cling to the hair close to the scalp. Nits are oval shaped and most often can be seen in the hair and behind the ears or neck. Lice hatch from nits after about 6 days and can lay more eggs after 10 days. Head lice are not a sign of uncleanliness, and they do not spread disease. The most common symptom of lice is itching the scalp.
There are many ways to treat active infestations, but not all products and techniques have been evaluated for safety and effectiveness. One percent permethrin lotion is recommended as initial treatment for most head lice infestations with a second application 7-10 days after the first. Parents and caregivers should make sure that any treatment chosen is safe; preferred treatments would be those which are easy to use, reasonably priced, and proven to be non-toxic. All products must be used exactly according to manufacturer’s instructions. Your pediatrician can help with diagnosis, treatment choices and management of difficult cases.
Learn more about head lice.
Learn more about preventing the spread of head lice.
Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are small, wingless insects that bite but do not transmit disease. It is unlikely for bed bugs to become established in a school—they are more typically found in homes or places where people sleep, as they are most active at night when they feed. However, they can be brought into a school on clothing or in personal belongings.
The Cold You Prevent May Be Your Own
During the winter months we have a higher number of students staying home ill with the common cold, flu, strep throat or other respiratory illness. Too often, however, very ill students come to school and unwittingly expose their classmates and teachers to their illnesses. Exposure can occur by inhaling germs released during a sneeze or cough or by touching doorknobs, pencils, other items or other surfaces contaminated by the infected person and then by touching the eyes or nostrils, allowing the germs to enter the respiratory system. Sometimes exposure is inevitable. But we do have several ways to protect ourselves.
- Frequent handwashing, with soap and warm water, scrubbing for about 15 seconds is most important.
- Keep your hands away from your eyes and nose.
- Avoid people who are ill.
- Don't share food, beverages or eating utensils with someone who is ill.
- Keep your body in top form by eating right, getting enough rest and exercise, and by avoiding stress.
