Child has lice: what to do and how to treat? - briefly
Treat the infestation with an approved lice‑killing shampoo or lotion, following the product’s instructions and repeating the treatment after 7–9 days; simultaneously wash the child’s bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks. Ensure all close contacts are inspected and, if necessary, treated to prevent re‑infestation.
Child has lice: what to do and how to treat? - in detail
When a youngster is found with head‑lice, the first priority is to confirm the infestation. Examine the scalp closely, using a fine‑tooth comb on wet hair; live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to the hair shaft indicate an active problem.
Immediately isolate the child from close contact with peers to prevent further spread. Notify teachers, caregivers, and anyone else who may have been exposed so they can inspect their own children.
Treatment proceeds in three phases: medication, removal, and environment sanitation.
Medication
- Choose a product approved by health authorities that contains either permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with a synergist. Follow the label precisely for dosage and application time.
- For resistant cases, a prescription‑only agent such as malathion (0.5 %) or ivermectin lotion may be required; obtain it from a healthcare professional.
- Apply the preparation to dry hair, leave it for the specified period, then rinse thoroughly. A second application is typically advised 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Physical removal
- After the chemical step, comb the hair with a fine‑tooth lice comb while it is still damp. Start at the scalp and work toward the ends, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Continue combing every day for at least a week, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and any other areas where nits are common.
- Discard or sterilize the comb after each session to avoid re‑contamination.
Environmental control
- Wash all bedding, hats, scarves, and hair accessories used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °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 a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray insects. No fumigation is necessary.
Monitor the child’s scalp for 2–3 weeks after treatment. If live lice are observed after the second application, repeat the entire regimen or consult a medical professional for alternative therapy. Persistent infestation may indicate resistance or incomplete removal, requiring a different active ingredient or a combination of treatments.
Preventive measures include regular head checks, discouraging the sharing of personal items such as combs, hats, and headphones, and educating children about avoiding head‑to‑head contact during play. Maintaining these practices reduces the likelihood of recurrence.