Pediatricians: Send Those Kids With Lice Back To School

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) - Future generations won't be sitting out school just because some creepy crawlies were discovered on student scalps, at least not if schools adopt new clinical recommendations from a group of pediatricians.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says the immediate removal of students from class due to the recovery of lice or their eggs (called nits) often creates an unnecessary stigma for school kids. Doctors say lice should instead be treated as a nuisance, not a serious disease or a sign of poor hygiene.

"Because a child with an active head lice infestation likely has had the infestation for 1 month or more by the time it is discovered and poses little risk to others from the infestation, he or she should remain in class, but be discouraged from close direct head contact with others," read the new recommendations published in the journal Pediatrics.

The AAP says most cases of lice are actually contracted outside of school and can should be treated after the discovery with an over the counter product.

"No-nit policies are unjust and should be abandoned. Children can finish the school day, be treated, and return to school," reads a followup article from the AAP. "The best way to interrupt a chronic lice problem is with regular checks by parents and early treatment."