A girl has lice on her head: what should be done? - briefly
Apply a certified lice treatment (shampoo, lotion, or spray) and comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove nits, then wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water. Repeat the treatment in 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
A girl has lice on her head: what should be done? - in detail
A child discovered with head‑lice infestation requires immediate, systematic action. First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs by examining the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb under good lighting. Separate the affected individual from close contact with others until treatment begins.
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Select an appropriate product – Choose an FDA‑approved pediculicide containing either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with a synergist. For resistant cases, seek a prescription‑only option such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion. Follow label instructions precisely regarding amount, application time, and washing off.
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Apply the treatment – Cover dry hair completely, ensuring the solution reaches the scalp. Leave it on for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 8–12 hours for malathron). Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
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Remove nits – After the product is rinsed, use a fine‑toothed nit comb on damp hair, starting at the scalp and moving outward. Comb each section several times, wiping the comb blade after each pass. Repeat the combing process at 7‑day intervals for at least three sessions to capture any newly hatched lice.
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Treat the environment – Wash all recently worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
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Prevent re‑infestation – Advise the child to avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or headphones. Encourage regular head checks, especially after school or group activities. Implement a classroom‑wide screening if multiple cases are reported.
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Monitor and repeat – Examine the scalp 24 hours after the first treatment for any surviving lice. If live insects are observed, repeat the pediculicide according to the product’s maximum frequency (usually no more than twice within a week). Persistent infestation after two complete cycles warrants medical evaluation for alternative therapy.
By executing these steps promptly and thoroughly, the infestation is eliminated, the risk of spread is minimized, and future occurrences are less likely.