A child has lice: what should parents do? - briefly
Treat the infestation promptly with an FDA‑approved lice shampoo or lotion, following the product’s instructions and repeating the treatment after 7‑10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits. Wash the child’s bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water, vacuum the home, and inform the school so other families can check for lice.
A child has lice: what should parents do? - in detail
When a youngster is discovered to have head‑lice, immediate, systematic action reduces spread and eases discomfort.
First, confirm the infestation. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet hair; move the comb from scalp to tip, checking each pass for live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached close to the scalp.
Second, select an appropriate treatment. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based shampoos). Apply according to the product label, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription medications (e.g., malathion 0.5 % lotion, ivermectin oral tablets) for resistant cases or when OTC agents fail.
- Non‑chemical methods such as wet combing with a fine metal comb, repeated every 2–3 days for at least two weeks, can eradicate lice without drugs but requires diligent effort.
Third, execute a thorough removal process. After the initial treatment, comb the hair while still damp, section by section, to extract live lice and nits. Dispose of combed material by sealing in a plastic bag and discarding.
Fourth, implement environmental control. Wash all bedding, clothing, and hats worn within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, the typical survival time of lice off the host. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to capture any stray insects.
Fifth, inform close contacts. Notify the child’s school, daycare, and any playgroups so that caregivers can inspect and treat other children promptly, preventing a resurgence.
Sixth, schedule follow‑up. Re‑examine the child’s scalp 7–10 days after the first treatment. If live lice persist, repeat the chosen medication or switch to an alternative, following label instructions regarding maximum application frequency.
Seventh, educate the family. Advise against sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, and pillows. Encourage regular head checks, especially after group activities, to catch reinfestation early.
By following these steps—verification, treatment selection, meticulous removal, environmental sanitation, communication with contacts, follow‑up inspection, and preventive education—parents can effectively eliminate head‑lice and minimize recurrence.