Parents throughout the Garden State are urged to check their children for head lice.

Several schools in Monmouth County and throughout New Jersey are reporting cases of head lice. Doctors say one in 10 children will become infected with the wingless, grayish-white parasites before leaving elementary school. They say the insects are spread by close contact or by sharing combs, hats, helmets and clothing.

Doctors recommend parents check children?s heads periodically as a precaution. They say check around necks and ears.

Pharmacists say there are over the counter shampoos and creams that usually get rid of lice. They say more parents have been coming to stores recently looking for the lice shampoos.

If a child gets lice, parents should boil brushes and combs in water. They should also wash all clothing and bedding in hot water to kill remaining insects.

For interviews with a doctor and a pharmacist about head lice, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

Related Information:What You Should Know About Head LiceHarvard School of Public Health