What are some ways to help prevent head lice?

To prevent head lice, individuals should avoid direct or indirect contact with an infected person's head or hair, recommends the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults and children should not share hair styling tools, hair accessories, hats, coats or uniforms.

Individuals should not rest on soft materials that have been in contact with an infected person in the previous two days, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Examples include carpeting, pillows, couches, beds and stuffed animals. Families can kill lice and nits by washing potentially infected items in water that is 130 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter.