§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment (1) how many instances of head lice were reported by(a) primary and (b) secondary schools in each of the last five years; [45975]
(2) what records his Department keeps on the number of reported instances of head lice.[45976]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisThe Department does not keep records of the reported incidence of head lice in schools.
§ Mr. DrewTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what measures he is discussing with schools with the aim of reducing the number of reported incidents of head lice. [45977]
§ Ms Estelle MorrisThe treatment of head lice in children is essentially dealt with at local level, between the Community Child Health Services (CCHS), the school152W and the parents. It is for parents to check their children's heads and arrange treatment where required, seeking advice as needed from the primary health care team—the general practitioner, health visitor, school nurse or the local pharmacist.
The Department is in regular contact with the Department of Health on a range of health issues relating to pupils' health, including the treatment of head lice. Officials from both Departments provide advice to schools and parents on head lice control, including a leaflet containing guidance on prevention and treatment.