A child constantly has lice: what to do? - briefly
Inspect the child’s hair each day, apply an approved lice treatment, and remove nits with a fine-toothed comb; simultaneously launder clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any hatchlings and prevent reinfestation.
A child constantly has lice: what to do? - in detail
Repeated infestations of head lice in a child require a systematic approach that combines treatment, prevention, and environmental control.
Effective medication should be applied according to the product instructions, typically a 1% permethrin lotion or a 0.5% malathion shampoo. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly. A second application after seven to ten days eliminates newly hatched nits that survived the first round. Use a fine-toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair after each treatment to extract remaining eggs.
Prevent further spread by implementing these measures:
- Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve lice.
- Instruct the child to avoid head-to-head contact during play and to refrain from sharing hats, hair accessories, or headphones.
- Conduct weekly inspections of the scalp and hair for at least one month, using a bright light and a comb, to catch early signs of recurrence.
If infestations persist despite correct use of over‑the‑counter products, consider a prescription‑strength treatment such as ivermectin lotion or oral medication, and consult a healthcare professional. Underlying factors—such as inadequate combing technique, incomplete retreatment, or reinfestation from close contacts—should be identified and addressed.
Educating caregivers and classmates about the biology of lice, the limited role of hygiene in transmission, and the importance of consistent follow‑up reduces stigma and promotes cooperation in eradication efforts.