Are Head Lice Common At Summer Camps? How Do I Protect My Child?

The prevalence of lice depends a great deal on the age and gender of the campers.  Lice is most common in girls aged 4 to 12.  At Lice Clinics of America, we have screened camps where more than 10% of campers were positive, but it’s usually closer to 5-8%.

If you are concerned your child may have lice, have them professionally treated BEFORE arriving at camp to avoid the embarrassment of being sent home.  To protect your child from exposure, use peppermint repellant sprays on jackets, backpacks, caps, as well as campers.  Peppermint makes your child less inviting to lice looking to spread.

Before your child returns from camp, it would be wise to have them screened by a professional before reintroducing them to the home.   Remember, cheer, dance, and gymnastics have the highest level of lice, followed closely by a church camp.  Stay alert!