Which doctor treats lice, and whom should you consult?

Understanding Head Lice

What are Head Lice?

Life Cycle of Lice

The life cycle of head lice consists of three distinct phases. Eggs, called nits, are attached to hair shafts near the scalp. They hatch after about seven days, releasing nymphs. Nymphs resemble miniature adults but lack full reproductive capacity; they undergo three molts over approximately ten days before reaching maturity. Adult lice survive on the host for up to thirty days, feeding several times daily and laying up to six eggs per day.

Understanding this timeline informs treatment decisions. When an infestation is confirmed, the appropriate medical professional should be consulted. Primary care physicians can diagnose and prescribe topical or oral agents. Dermatologists specialize in skin and hair disorders and can manage resistant cases. Pediatricians address lice in children, offering guidance on household decontamination. In rare instances of extensive scalp involvement, an infectious disease specialist may be involved.

Effective management combines accurate identification of the life stage with timely medical intervention. Removing nits before they hatch prevents the emergence of new nymphs, while medication eliminates existing adults. Follow‑up appointments verify eradication and address any complications such as secondary skin infection.

Common Misconceptions about Lice

Lice infestations generate numerous false beliefs that impede effective management.

Medical evaluation is typically provided by primary‑care physicians or pediatricians, who can prescribe prescription‑strength pediculicides and assess secondary skin irritation. Dermatologists specialize in scalp disorders and may be consulted for persistent or atypical cases. Infectious‑disease specialists become relevant only when lice spread indicates broader public‑health concerns. Over‑the‑counter products are available, yet a clinician’s guidance ensures correct diagnosis and avoids unnecessary medication.

Common misconceptions about lice:

“Lice transmit disease.” Evidence shows lice are vectors for limited pathogens; most infestations cause only itching and secondary infection.
“Adult hair removal eliminates lice.” Lice cling to hair shafts; cutting hair reduces habitat but does not guarantee eradication.
“Pet animals carry human lice.” Human lice are species‑specific; pets host different ectoparasites.
“Home remedies cure infestations.” Substances such as vinegar, mayonnaise, or petroleum jelly lack scientific support and may delay effective treatment.
“Only children get lice.” Adults can contract lice through close contact or shared items; prevalence is not age‑restricted.
“Lice survive without a host for weeks.” Lice die within 24‑48 hours off a human scalp, making environmental decontamination less critical than direct treatment.

Understanding these facts directs patients to the appropriate healthcare professional and prevents reliance on ineffective or harmful practices.

Symptoms of Head Lice Infestation

Itching and Irritation

Itching and irritation are common immediate responses to a lice infestation. The bite of a louse injects saliva that triggers a histamine reaction, producing localized redness, swelling, and a persistent urge to scratch. Continuous scratching can damage the skin, creating entry points for bacteria and potentially leading to secondary infection.

When lice are identified, the first point of contact should be a primary‑care physician or a pediatrician for children. These clinicians can confirm the diagnosis, prescribe topical pediculicides, and advise on hygiene measures to prevent re‑infestation. If the itch persists despite treatment, or if there are signs of skin infection such as pus, crusting, or spreading redness, referral to a dermatologist is appropriate. Dermatologists have expertise in managing inflammatory skin reactions, prescribing stronger antipruritic agents, and treating secondary bacterial complications.

In rare cases where the infestation is extensive, resistant to standard therapy, or associated with systemic symptoms, an infectious‑disease specialist may be consulted. This specialist can evaluate alternative treatment protocols, assess for co‑existing parasitic infections, and coordinate multidisciplinary care.

Key actions for managing itching and irritation caused by lice:

Seek evaluation from a primary‑care physician or pediatrician promptly.
Follow prescribed topical treatment and wash personal items according to guidelines.
Monitor skin for signs of infection; if present, obtain a dermatologist’s assessment.
Consider infectious‑disease consultation for resistant or complicated cases.

Visible Nits and Lice

Visible nits are the solid, elongated eggs attached to hair shafts; live lice are small, wing‑less insects that move quickly across the scalp. Both are identifiable without magnification, and their presence confirms an active infestation that requires treatment.

The medical professional qualified to diagnose and manage head‑lice infestations is typically a dermatologist, who specializes in skin and hair conditions. Pediatricians and family physicians also treat lice, especially in children, and can prescribe medicated shampoos or oral agents when topical products fail. In rare cases of widespread or resistant infestations, an infectious‑disease specialist may be consulted for advanced therapy.

Dermatologist – expert in scalp and hair disorders, able to confirm diagnosis and prescribe prescription‑strength treatments.
Pediatrician or family physician – first point of contact for children and families, provides standard treatment options and follow‑up.
Infectious‑disease physician – consulted for persistent, drug‑resistant cases or when systemic medication is indicated.

Prompt consultation with one of these clinicians ensures accurate identification of nits and lice and selection of an effective, evidence‑based regimen.

Who to Consult for Lice Treatment

Initial Steps and Self-Diagnosis

Checking for Lice at Home

Checking for lice at home allows early identification and reduces the risk of widespread infestation. The process requires a systematic examination of the scalp and hair.

Gather a fine-toothed comb, a bright light source, and a clean towel.
Separate hair into small sections, securing each with a clip.
Comb each section from the scalp outward, wiping the comb on the towel after each pass.
Inspect the comb for live lice (brownish insects about the size of a sesame seed) and for nits (tiny, oval, white or yellowish eggs attached close to the scalp).
Repeat the procedure on all areas of the head, including behind ears and at the nape.

If live lice or nits are found, a medical professional should confirm the diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Primary care physicians, pediatricians, and dermatologists possess the expertise to evaluate head‑lice infestations and recommend appropriate medicated shampoos or oral agents. In cases where the patient is a child, a pediatrician is typically the first point of contact; for persistent or atypical cases, referral to a dermatologist may be warranted.

After professional consultation, follow the prescribed treatment regimen precisely, repeat the combing process every 2–3 days for two weeks, and wash personal items (bedding, hats, brushes) in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.

Over-the-Counter Treatment Options

Over‑the‑counter remedies are the first line of defense against head‑lice infestations. Products containing permethrin 1 % or pyrethrins with piperonyl‑butoxide are approved for topical use and are applied to dry hair, left for the recommended time, then rinsed. Dimethicone lotions, which coat lice and prevent them from breathing, offer a non‑neurotoxic alternative and require a single application. Benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion works by asphyxiating the insects; it must be applied to the scalp for ten minutes before washing. Spinosad 0.9 % suspension, although available without a prescription in many regions, delivers a rapid kill and is safe for children over six months.

When OTC treatments fail, or when infestation persists after two complete cycles, a medical professional should be consulted. Dermatologists and pediatricians routinely diagnose and manage lice, prescribing stronger agents such as malathion or ivermectin. Primary‑care physicians can also evaluate for secondary skin infections and advise on environmental decontamination. If a caregiver is uncertain about product selection, a pharmacist can provide guidance on proper use and potential side effects.

When to See a Doctor

Persistent Infestations

Persistent head‑lice infestations require professional evaluation when over‑the‑counter products fail, when lice reappear within weeks, or when symptoms persist despite correct use of treatments. The clinician assesses scalp condition, confirms live lice or nits, and determines whether resistance to common pediculicides is likely.

The appropriate medical professional depends on patient age and setting:

Primary‑care physician for initial assessment and prescription of medicinal lice treatments.
Pediatrician for children, offering age‑specific medication dosages and guidance on household decontamination.
Dermatologist when scalp dermatitis, secondary bacterial infection, or atypical presentations complicate the case.
Infectious‑disease specialist for recurrent infestations unresponsive to standard regimens, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

The clinician may prescribe topical agents (e.g., permethrin 1 % or malathion) or oral medications (e.g., ivermectin). Follow‑up appointments verify eradication and address reinfestation risk factors, such as shared personal items or inadequate cleaning of bedding. Coordination with school health services can prevent further spread.

Allergic Reactions to Lice or Treatments

Allergic reactions to head‑lice infestations or to the medications used for eradication require prompt medical evaluation. Common manifestations include localized itching, erythema, swelling, hives, or, in severe cases, respiratory distress. When these symptoms appear, the appropriate specialist should be identified.

Dermatologists possess expertise in cutaneous hypersensitivity and can differentiate between a simple lice bite reaction and a true allergic dermatitis. They prescribe topical corticosteroids, antihistamine creams, or systemic agents as needed.
Allergists specialize in immune‑mediated responses. They conduct skin‑prick or serum IgE testing to confirm specific allergens, such as permethrin, pyrethrins, or other pediculicides, and formulate desensitization or avoidance strategies.
Primary‑care physicians serve as first contact for acute symptoms, assess severity, and refer patients to dermatology or allergy services when indicated. They also manage systemic antihistamines and short‑course oral steroids.

Management steps:

Discontinue the suspected pediculicide if a reaction is suspected.
Apply a low‑potency topical corticosteroid to reduce inflammation.
Administer an oral antihistamine to control pruritus.
Seek specialist evaluation if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours or if systemic involvement occurs.

Choosing the correct clinician minimizes complications, ensures accurate diagnosis of the allergic trigger, and facilitates effective treatment of both the infestation and the hypersensitivity.

Infants and Young Children

Infants and young children who develop head‑lice infestations require evaluation by a medical professional trained to prescribe safe treatments for this age group. The first point of contact is typically the child’s pediatrician, who can confirm the diagnosis, assess the severity, and recommend age‑appropriate topical agents or oral medications. Pediatricians are also equipped to address any skin irritation or secondary infection that may accompany the infestation.

If the pediatrician determines that specialized care is needed, a referral to a dermatologist is appropriate. Dermatologists have expertise in managing resistant lice strains and can provide alternative therapies, such as prescription‑strength shampoos or combination regimens. In regions where pediatric care is limited, a family medicine physician with experience in pediatric dermatology may serve as an effective substitute.

Medical professionals to consult for lice in infants and young children

Pediatrician (primary assessment and treatment)
Dermatologist (specialized management, resistant cases)
Family medicine physician with pediatric experience (alternative primary care)

Prompt consultation minimizes the risk of prolonged discomfort, reduces the chance of spread to other family members, and ensures that treatment follows safety guidelines for young patients.

Types of Medical Professionals to Consult

Primary Care Physician «PCP»

A primary care physician (PCP) serves as the initial medical professional to address a lice infestation. The PCP evaluates the patient, confirms the presence of lice, and determines the appropriate treatment plan.

The PCP can:

Conduct a visual inspection of the scalp and hair.
Prescribe FDA‑approved topical pediculicides (e.g., permethrin 1% or pyrethrin‑based products).
Advise on proper application techniques and retreatment intervals.
Recommend adjunct measures such as washing bedding, clothing, and personal items at high temperatures.
Provide guidance on preventing re‑infestation, including avoiding head-to-head contact and regular hair checks.

If the infestation persists after two treatment cycles, the PCP may refer the patient to a specialist—typically a dermatologist for resistant cases or a pediatrician when the patient is a child and additional developmental considerations are needed. The referral ensures access to alternative therapies, such as oral ivermectin or specialized shampoos, and confirms that no secondary skin conditions are present.

Pediatrician «for children»

A pediatrician is the primary medical professional to consult when a child has head lice. This specialist is trained to recognize the infestation, confirm it through visual examination, and prescribe the most effective treatment.

The pediatrician’s role includes:

Identifying live lice and viable nits on the scalp.
Recommending over‑the‑counter or prescription pediculicides appropriate for the child’s age.
Demonstrating proper application techniques and safety precautions.
Advising on mechanical removal using fine-toothed combs.
Providing guidance on cleaning personal items and household fabrics to prevent re‑infestation.

If the infestation persists after standard therapy, a dermatologist may be consulted for alternative topical agents or for evaluation of secondary skin irritation. In regions where a pediatrician is unavailable, a family physician or a school health nurse can perform the initial assessment and refer the case as needed.

Dermatologist «for severe cases or skin issues»

Lice infestations are commonly addressed by primary‑care physicians or pediatricians, who prescribe over‑the‑counter or prescription shampoos and provide guidance on removal techniques. When the infestation is extensive, recurs after standard treatment, or is accompanied by skin irritation, inflammation, or secondary infection, referral to a dermatologist becomes necessary.

Dermatologists specialize in skin health and are equipped to handle the following complications:

Persistent itching or rash that does not resolve with basic therapy
Secondary bacterial infection of the scalp or surrounding skin
Allergic reactions to lice or treatment products
Cases where lice are resistant to standard pediculicides
Individuals with pre‑existing dermatologic conditions that may be aggravated by infestation

In such situations, the dermatologist evaluates the severity, confirms the diagnosis, and prescribes advanced topical agents, oral medications, or adjunctive therapies tailored to the patient’s skin condition. Consulting a dermatologist ensures comprehensive management of both the parasite and any associated dermatologic issues.

School Nurse or Public Health Nurse «for guidance»

Lice infestations among children often appear during the school year. Immediate assessment and treatment reduce spread and discomfort.

The school nurse serves as the first professional contact. She can confirm the presence of lice, recommend over‑the‑counter or prescription products, instruct caregivers on proper application, and monitor treatment outcomes. When infestations persist after two treatment cycles or involve secondary skin infection, the nurse directs families to a medical practitioner.

The public health nurse provides community‑level guidance. She delivers educational sessions on prevention, coordinates school‑wide screening programs, and supplies resources for families lacking access to care. For outbreaks affecting multiple classrooms, the public health nurse collaborates with local health departments to implement coordinated treatment plans.

Medical doctors who manage lice include primary‑care physicians, pediatricians, family doctors, and, when skin complications arise, dermatologists. These clinicians prescribe prescription‑strength shampoos, oral medications, or alternative therapies and address any accompanying infections.

Typical consultation pathway

Contact the school nurse for initial diagnosis and treatment instructions.
Follow the nurse’s guidance on product use and re‑examination.
If lice remain after recommended treatment, schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or family physician.
For extensive skin irritation or allergic reactions, seek care from a dermatologist.
For broader outbreaks, cooperate with the public health nurse’s school‑wide program.

Medical Treatment Options

Prescription Medications

Topical Treatments

Lice infestations (pediculosis) are diagnosed and managed by medical professionals who specialize in skin and hair conditions. Primary care physicians commonly evaluate patients, while dermatologists and pediatricians provide expertise for complex or recurrent cases. In regions with high resistance patterns, infectious‑disease physicians may be consulted for alternative regimens.

Topical agents remain the first‑line approach for eliminating head lice. They are applied directly to the scalp and hair, delivering insecticidal compounds that disrupt the nervous system of the parasite. Proper application, adherence to exposure times, and thorough combing are essential for efficacy.

Common topical treatments include:

Permethrin 1 % – synthetic pyrethroid; approved for children 2 months and older; resistance reported in some populations.
Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl butoxide – natural extract with synergist; suitable for children 2 months and older; limited resistance.
Benzyl alkonium chloride 10 % – surfactant that suffocates lice; safe for infants 6 weeks and older; requires multiple applications.
Spinosad 0.9 % – derived from soil bacteria; effective against resistant strains; approved for children 12 months and older.
Ivermectin 0.5 % lotion – macrocyclic lactone; used when other agents fail; prescription‑only, for patients 6 months and older.

Selection criteria focus on patient age, allergy history, and local resistance data. Prescription‑only products should be obtained after consultation with the appropriate clinician. Following treatment, repeat the application according to the product label (usually 7–10 days) and perform nit combing to remove surviving eggs.

Oral Medications

Lice infestations require a clinician’s evaluation when topical agents fail, are contraindicated, or when rapid eradication is essential. Oral agents are prescription‑only and must be administered under medical supervision.

Patients should first contact a primary‑care physician or pediatrician; these clinicians assess the severity of the infestation, verify the diagnosis, and determine whether an oral regimen is appropriate. Dermatologists are consulted for recurrent or resistant cases, while infectious‑disease specialists may be involved when systemic therapy is indicated for extensive spread.

Common oral treatments include:

Ivermectin – single‑dose 200 µg/kg; repeat dose after 7 days if live lice persist.
Spinosad (oral formulation) – 10 mg/kg single dose; effective against resistant strains.
Moxidectin – 200 µg/kg single dose; alternative for patients with contraindications to ivermectin.

Prescribing physicians evaluate age, weight, pregnancy status, and potential drug interactions before selecting a medication. They provide dosage instructions, advise on side‑effect monitoring, and schedule follow‑up visits to confirm eradication and address reinfestation risk.

Professional Removal Services

Lice Removal Clinics

Lice infestations are medical conditions that require professional assessment and treatment. Dermatologists, pediatricians, and family physicians are qualified to diagnose head‑lice or body‑lice problems, prescribe medicated shampoos, and advise on preventive measures. When an infestation persists after over‑the‑counter products, a specialist visit ensures appropriate therapy and reduces the risk of secondary skin infections.

Lice removal clinics specialize in rapid eradication of live insects and nits. These facilities combine licensed medical staff with trained technicians who perform:

Microscopic inspection to confirm species and infestation severity
Mechanical nit removal using specialized combs and tools
Application of prescription‑strength topical agents under supervision
Post‑treatment follow‑up appointments to verify clearance

Clinics often operate on a walk‑in basis, allowing prompt service without prior appointment. They maintain strict infection‑control protocols, including disposable equipment and sanitized work areas, to prevent cross‑contamination.

Patients should first seek advice from a primary‑care doctor to rule out other dermatologic conditions. If the physician recommends a dedicated treatment center, the referral typically includes the clinic’s name, contact information, and any required pre‑treatment instructions. Selecting a clinic accredited by local health authorities guarantees adherence to evidence‑based practices and qualified personnel.

Managing Side Effects of Treatment

Skin Irritation

Lice infestations often produce localized skin irritation, characterized by redness, itching, and occasional secondary infection from scratching. The irritation results from the bite of the insect and the body’s inflammatory response.

When skin irritation from lice persists or worsens, the appropriate medical professional is a dermatologist, who specializes in skin conditions and can confirm the presence of lice, assess secondary infections, and prescribe targeted treatments. For children, a pediatrician or a family physician may serve as the first point of contact; they can diagnose the infestation, provide topical or oral medications, and refer to a dermatologist if complications arise.

Steps to obtain effective care:

Schedule an appointment with a primary‑care provider or pediatrician for initial evaluation.
Request a referral to a dermatologist if symptoms include extensive rash, infection, or resistance to over‑the‑counter remedies.
Follow prescribed treatment regimens, including medicated shampoos, oral agents, and hygiene measures to prevent reinfestation.
Return for follow‑up if irritation persists after the recommended course.

Prompt consultation with the appropriate specialist reduces discomfort, prevents spread, and minimizes the risk of secondary skin infection.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions may follow the use of over‑the‑counter or prescription lice treatments. Common irritants include permethrin, pyrethrin, malathion, and oil‑based preparations. When a patient experiences redness, swelling, hives, or respiratory distress after applying a lice product, immediate medical evaluation is required.

The appropriate specialist depends on the severity and nature of the reaction:

Primary‑care physician or pediatrician: initial assessment, discontinue the offending agent, prescribe antihistamines or short‑course steroids.
Dermatologist: evaluation of cutaneous symptoms, confirmation that the rash is drug‑related rather than secondary infection, recommendation of alternative topical options.
Allergist/immunologist: conduct skin‑prick or serum testing to identify specific allergens, develop a long‑term avoidance plan, prescribe epinephrine auto‑injectors if anaphylaxis risk exists.

Key signs indicating an urgent consultation:

Rapidly spreading hives or angio‑edema.
Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or throat tightness.
Severe itching accompanied by blistering or ulceration.
Fever or systemic symptoms after treatment.

If a reaction is mild, the primary‑care provider may manage it with oral antihistamines and topical corticosteroids. Persistent or worsening symptoms warrant referral to a dermatologist or allergist for targeted therapy and guidance on safe lice eradication methods.

Preventing Re-infestation

Best Practices for Prevention

Regular Checks

Regular examinations for head‑lice infestations reduce the risk of unnoticed spread and allow prompt treatment.

Primary care physicians, including pediatricians and family doctors, are the first point of contact for routine assessment. Dermatologists handle persistent cases or atypical presentations. School health personnel can perform preliminary screenings in educational settings.

Typical timing for checks:

Children examined at the start of each school term.
Follow‑up visits scheduled two weeks after any confirmed case.
Annual review during well‑child appointments, even without symptoms.

During a check, clinicians:

Visually inspect the scalp and hairline for live insects or viable nits.
Use a fine‑tooth comb to separate hair and reveal hidden eggs.
Ask about recent exposure to infested individuals or environments.
Document findings and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate topical or oral therapy.

Consistent monitoring by the appropriate health professional ensures early detection and effective management of lice infestations.

Avoiding Head-to-Head Contact

Avoiding direct head-to‑head contact reduces the risk of lice transmission. Lice move primarily by crawling from one scalp to another; physical contact provides the most efficient pathway. Maintaining a personal space of at least a few inches between heads, especially in crowded environments such as schools, gyms, or group activities, interrupts this pathway. Regularly separating hair during play, using individual hats or helmets, and discouraging shared headgear further diminish exposure.

When an infestation is suspected, medical evaluation should be sought promptly. Primary care physicians possess the authority to diagnose and prescribe appropriate topical or oral treatments. Dermatologists specialize in skin and hair disorders and can manage resistant cases or complications such as secondary bacterial infection. Pediatricians serve as the first point of contact for children, offering age‑specific medication guidance and preventive counseling for families.

Practical steps to minimize head‑to‑head exposure:

Keep hair tied back or in a braid during group activities.
Assign personal hats, helmets, or scarves and avoid sharing them.
Encourage children to sit apart during classroom or bus rides.
Clean shared equipment (e.g., sports helmets) with a disinfectant after each use.
Educate caregivers and teachers on recognizing early signs of lice infestation.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Personal Items

Lice infestations require both medical treatment and environmental control. A physician qualified to prescribe pediculicide medication—typically a dermatologist, pediatrician, or primary‑care doctor—should be consulted for diagnosis and prescription. After the prescription is obtained, personal items must be decontaminated to prevent reinfestation.

Cleaning and disinfecting personal items involves the following actions:

Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (minimum 130 °F / 54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
Seal non‑washable items such as hats, scarves, or hair accessories in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks; lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host, and the extended period ensures any surviving eggs hatch and die.
Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly; dispose of vacuum contents in a sealed bag.
Disinfect combs, brushes, and hair‑care tools by soaking in a solution of 0.5% sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) for ten minutes, then rinse and air‑dry.
Store clean items in a clean, dry environment to avoid recontamination.

The medical professional will assess the severity of the infestation and may recommend follow‑up visits. Coordination between treatment and thorough item sanitation maximizes the likelihood of complete eradication.

School and Community Guidelines

Communication with Schools

When a child is diagnosed with head lice, the appropriate medical professional is typically a pediatrician or a primary‑care physician; dermatologists may be consulted for persistent cases or scalp‑skin complications. The physician prescribes an approved pediculicide, provides guidance on proper application, and advises on follow‑up examinations.

Parents must inform the school promptly. The notification should include:

The child’s name and grade.
Confirmation of diagnosis from the health provider.
Date treatment began and the product used.
Any required documentation, such as a doctor’s note, per school policy.

The school’s response involves the nurse or designated health coordinator. Responsibilities include:

Recording the incident in the health log.
Communicating the case to the principal and relevant staff.
Initiating the institution’s lice‑management protocol, which may involve notifying other parents, scheduling classroom cleaning, and enforcing exclusion periods if mandated.

If the school’s policy requires a second medical clearance, parents should arrange a follow‑up appointment with the same physician or a specialist, obtain the necessary paperwork, and submit it to the school administration.

Effective communication hinges on timely, factual reporting and adherence to both medical advice and institutional guidelines, ensuring swift treatment and minimizing re‑infestation.

Informing Close Contacts

Lice infestations are medically managed by dermatologists, pediatricians, or primary‑care physicians who prescribe topical pediculicides and recommend hygiene measures. The same professionals can advise patients on how to prevent re‑infestation by alerting individuals who have been exposed.

When a case is confirmed, the patient should:

Identify household members, classmates, coworkers, or anyone who shares personal items such as hats, combs, or bedding.
Contact each person directly, stating the diagnosis, the date of detection, and the recommended treatment protocol.
Provide concise instructions on applying the prescribed medication, washing contaminated fabrics at 130 °F (54 °C), and avoiding head‑to‑head contact for the treatment period.
Encourage the recipients to seek evaluation from a qualified clinician—preferably the same specialist who confirmed the infestation—to verify treatment suitability and to obtain prescription medication if needed.
Document the notification process, noting dates and methods of communication (phone, email, or written note) for future reference.

Prompt communication reduces the risk of secondary cases and supports coordinated eradication across the affected group.