Hi J.,
I have six kids and we've been through the drama head lice brings. However, the discovery of head lice varies with each individual. Here is some info I found:
Itching may not occur right away, depending on a person's sensitivity and history of lice infestation. The first time a person is infested with lice, it may take several weeks or months for itching to develop or to be noticed. In a repeat case of lice, a person may begin to itch within 2 days of infestation because the immune system reacts more quickly when exposure has occurred previously. (http://health.yahoo.com/skinconditions-symptoms/lice-symp...)
You can check out this web site for more details. In our case, I found lice favored one of my children over the others and we worked at it for six months before I could honestly say I was ABSOLUTELY certian they were gone. It is quite a chore to get rid of them, especially with long or thick hair. Believe you me, if you need to know the best remedies, I can help you with that. I have tried them ALL!
In the meantime, if you are unsure take a few precautions such as putting all her stuffed animals and pillows in the dryer on high heat for atleast 30 mins. Wash all bedding in HOT water. Boil water and soak her hairbrushes in it for atleast 30 mins, after you remove from heat. When you vacuumm make sure you empty the container or bag immediately outside. You can also get the furniture and bedding spray from Wal-Mart in the pharmacy section to spray anything that will not fit in the dryer (i.e. - couches, mattresses, and even carpet if she lays on the floor to watch TV etc.)The Wal-Mart brand is less expensive and just as effective as the more expensive stuff!
I hope you do not find these incredibly irritating pests, but if so let me know and I can definitely help you with the remedies. Best of luck!
J. F.
The M.O.M. Team
http://www.4MeAndMom.com