Brace yourselves, parents: “super lice” are now a reality! These pesky little parasites have developed resistance to over-the-counter treatments, and the mere mention of “lice” sends chills down the spine of any caregiver. Add “super” to the mix, and you might as well have a horror movie on your hands.
Just in time for back-to-school season, this news is a real treat, isn’t it? Dr. Sam Reyes, an assistant professor at Springfield State University, was part of the team that identified these ultra-resistant strains. “We studied 109 lice populations, and a staggering 104 showed significant gene mutations,” he shared at a recent conference of the American Chemical Society. Yikes!
According to reports, Dr. Reyes gathered samples from every state, and his research continues. Of the 109 samples taken from 30 states, most were resistant to those trusty over-the-counter treatments. Fantastic! Just what parents needed—another thing to fret about.
This new info provides a solid counterpoint to the recent guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which suggested keeping kids in school since lice don’t spread diseases and aren’t easily transmitted. Sure thing, right?
Pediatric dermatologist Dr. Lucy Morgan advised parents in a recent interview that the treatments may not work as intended if they aren’t used properly. She emphasized the importance of applying OTC products again five to seven days after the first use, as those sneaky eggs can survive and hatch shortly after.
Despite the AAP’s recommendations, it’s crucial to remain vigilant when dealing with lice. Remember to wash clothes and bedding, remind kids in daycare not to share pillows and blankets, and keep up with follow-up treatments to eliminate those eggs. This news shouldn’t cause widespread panic; it’s just a reminder that these little nuisances are quite tenacious!
States with the Most Resistant Lice
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Connecticut
- Florida
- Georgia
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Minnesota
- Missouri
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Virginia
- Washington
- Wisconsin
So, only five out of the 30 states studied seem to be free from these resistant lice. And with further testing underway, we might as well accept that even regular lice have taken on superpowers!
If over-the-counter treatments aren’t doing the trick, consider talking to your doctor about prescription options. For more thorough guidance, you can check out the CDC’s recommended treatment here.
And if you’re exploring home insemination options, don’t forget to check out this informative post about the process. For expert advice on fertility journeys, visit Make a Mom.
In summary, while “super lice” are a growing concern across many states, staying informed and proactive can help manage the situation. Just remember, you’re not alone in this lice battle!