Having head lice is often seen as an embarrassment but health experts say there is nothing to be ashamed of.

Head lice are often wrongly thought to be a sign of poor hygiene but, in reality, they can live in any kind of hair, dirty or clean.

The first sign of head lice is when a child constantly scratches their head but unfortunately, by this time, the infestation is well established.

The head louse is a tiny insect which lives on the hair. The adult lays its white eggs, known as nits, at the roots of hair to which they become firmly attached.

It takes two weeks for the eggs to hatch and the lice then bite into the scalp to get blood. It is this which causes the itchiness.

Although there is often an outbreak of infection when children return to school after the long holidays and work and play together, infections can occur at any time of the year.

A child can catch lice after just a moment's contact with another child or adult who is already infected.

Health bosses say regular checks will keep problems under control and schools should be notified immediately if a child is infected.

There are a range of shampoos and insecticidal treatments available from pharmacies which can clear up the problem.

The best way to check if there is a problem is to use a comb and closely inspect the hair before starting any treatment.

First, wash the hair well and towel dry. The hair should be damp but not dripping. Comb through the hair thoroughly with an ordinary comb to remove tangles then use a special plastic detection comb bought from the pharmacist.

Start with the teeth of the comb touching the skin of the scalp at the top of the head. Keeping the teeth of the comb in contact with the scalp as long as possible, bring it slowly towards the end of the hair then look carefully at the teeth of the comb for signs of infection.

The process should be repeated for ten to 15 minutes, covering the scalp and hair in all directions.

Primary care and community trust across Sussex have helped raise awareness of the importance of checking for head lice by taking part in annual Bug-Busting Days.

Information packs are also distributed by school nurses to parents and guardians of all children who are starting primary school.

The pack contains advice, information cards and a detection comb.

East Sussex community infection control nurse Liz Maddock said: "Head lice are still a problem for many young children and their families.

"Every year, we produce 10,000 packs, which are given out free of charge. Parents have told us these packs are a big help and we are pleased to be able to provide this service."

Crawley GP Edward Casey said parents still become embarrassed about head lice.

He said: "I think many people get a shock because they think it is something they have done or not done but it is just one of those things and can be dealt with without any problems.

"There is also a common misunderstanding it is only children who can get head lice but adults can as well."

Head lice are small, greyish brown, wingless insects no bigger than a sesame seed even when fully grown.

Treatment with an insecticide should only be given if live lice are seen on the comb or on a tissue used to clean it.

Once lice are discovered, everyone in the home should be checked. Regular use of a lotion should clear up the infestation after about two weeks. If they continue, further advice should be sought from a GP or pharmacist.

For people who prefer a more natural solution to head lice, homeopaths suggest using something such as tea tree shampoo as lice do not like its smell.

A product called Aromaclear, a blend of essential oils, can also act as a deterrent to lice.

If you are at all worried about head lice or feel you need more advice on how to cope, you should consult your school nurse, health visitor, pharmacist or family doctor.