Public Health/Clinical Services
Clinical Services
Head Checks
Head lice are small, tan-colored insects, (less than 1/8" long). They live on the blood they draw from the scalp and can live for days to weeks depending on temperature.
They lay tiny, gray/white eggs, known as nits on the hair shaft 3-4mm from the scalp. The eggs need warmth from the scalp for hatching. Lice cannot lice for more than 48 hrs away from the scalp as adult insects.
Incubation period is 10 to 14 days from laying to the hatching of eggs. Lice can reproduce 2-3 weeks after hatching. Lice spread by direct contact and do not jump or fly. Direct contact can be from person to person by personal articles, bedding, other fabrics, hair brushes, combs, hair bands/ties, and stuffed animals.
Signs or symptoms can include:
- Itching of skin where lice feed on the scalp or neck
- Complaints about itchiness
- Scratching, especially behind and around the ears and the nape of the neck
- Open sores and crusting from secondary bacterial infection
Treatment
- Contact your primary physician or private care provider for the recommendation.
- Home remedies have been effective in treating lice, but over treating can be harmful.
Returning to Day Care, School, or Work
- Check with the policy of the school, facility, or employer.
To schedule a head check, call for an appointment @ 304-366-3360.
Blood Pressure Checks
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which blood pushes too hard against the blood vessel walls as it flows through the body. Left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems and increased risk of the following:
- Heart Attack
- Stroke
- Heart Disease
- Blindness
- Kidney Failure
Risk factors include:
- Heredity of high blood pressure in your family
- Diet
- Being overweight
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Age
- Race
- Smoking
There is a $5 fee associated with this walk-in service. This includes the blood pressure check and education materials.