(HealthDay News) -- Head lice are very contagious, but there are things parents can do to help keep their children from becoming infested.

The Nemours Foundation offers these suggestions:

  • Teach children to avoid having their heads come in contact with the heads of other children.
  • Don't let your child share hats, hair accessories, scarves, helmets, towels or any personal care items.
  • Don't allow your child to lie on pillows, carpeting or bedding that has recently been exposed to someone with lice.
  • If your family has been exposed to lice, check each member of the family every few days. Promptly treat any nits (eggs) or lice that are found.