Big breakthrough in nit problem

The solution to local kids catching nits has left doctors, parents and teachers scratching their heads... but not for much longer.

 

If latest estimates that 110,000 Welsh kids have nits are to be believed, then the news of a solution couldn’t have come fast enough.

 

The extent of the problem has led some Montgomeryshire parents to call for the return of the ‘nit nurse’, but the NHS has this week approved the use of a new treatment.

 

NYDA is the first head lice treatment to be approved by the NHS in more than four years, after recognises its clinically proven superiority over other head lice treatments in killing head lice and their eggs, thus breaking the louse lifecycle.

 

Babs Young, Independent Nurse Consultant, Children and Young Peoples Public Health and NYDA’s Nurse Advisor, said: “Head lice are not considered to be a high-priority health issue as they do not pose a major public health hazard, but continued infestations can have a long-term social impact on children and families. That’s why it’s so important for parents to have access to quality products, whether free on prescription or bought over the counter.

 

“Parents sometimes panic at the sight of lice, feeling disgust and anxiety when they discover an infestation. Younger children are less likely to get emotional about it, but they can still suffer as a consequence – losing days from school, experiencing disturbed sleep patterns through itching and discomfort, and so losing concentration in the daytime. Some may experience bullying and exclusion from peer groups. Older children can react more like adults, often feeling embarrassment and shame.

 

“School nurses used to be in a position to take responsibility for prevention, identification and treatment, while these days the responsibility lies with parents, but it is the duty of health professionals to support parents by providing quality education, advice and information on easy access to prescription services.”

 

NYDA can be prescribed by GP's, practice nurses, healthcare visitors or prescribing pharmacists free of charge anywhere in the UK.