Head Lice and Swimming

It is unlikely that head lice can be spread through use of swimming pools. Lice survive by holding onto hair and are not likely to let go when someone's head goes under water. It would be rare to find lice floating in pool water. It is more likely that head lice are spread by sharing towels or other items that have been in contact with an infested person's hair. Teach your children not to share towels, hair brushes, etc., either at poolside or in the changing room. Be aware that the chlorine levels found in pools do not kill head lice.

Swimming or washing hair within 1-2 days after treating with anti-lice shampoo will make the treatment less effective.

Source: Centers for Disease Control