After lice treatment eggs remain: what should be done? - briefly
Apply a fine-toothed nit comb each day for seven days after the initial treatment and repeat the medication as directed to eliminate any surviving eggs. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to prevent reinfestation.
After lice treatment eggs remain: what should be done? - in detail
When a lice infestation has been treated, the persistence of viable nits indicates that the initial application did not reach all oviposition sites. Immediate steps focus on mechanical removal, verification of treatment efficacy, and environmental control.
The following actions are recommended:
- Conduct a thorough nit combing session using a fine‑toothed lice comb on damp hair. Start at the scalp and work outward, wiping the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
- Apply a second dose of the chosen pediculicide according to the product’s label, typically 7–10 days after the first application. This timing targets eggs that have hatched since the initial treatment.
- Inspect the entire scalp, including behind the ears, the nape, and the hairline, to ensure no live lice or unhatched nits remain. Use a bright light or a magnifying lens for accuracy.
- Wash all recently used personal items—pillows, hats, scarves, hairbrushes, and hair accessories—in hot water (≥ 60 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for 48 hours to deprive any surviving stages of a habitat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to eliminate fallen nits. Discard vacuum bags or empty the canister immediately after use.
- Notify close contacts, such as family members or classmates, to initiate parallel checks and treatments, reducing the risk of re‑infestation.
If repeated combing and a second treatment fail to eradicate the infestation, consider switching to an alternative class of pediculicide (e.g., a dimethicone‑based product) or consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options. Continuous monitoring for another 2‑3 weeks ensures that any newly emerged lice are detected promptly.