How can lice be dealt with in a child? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide (e.g., permethrin 1 % or dimethicone) and use a fine‑tooth comb to remove nits, repeating the treatment after 7–10 days. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How can lice be dealt with in a child? - in detail
Head lice infestations in children require prompt identification and a systematic treatment plan. Early recognition prevents spread among classmates and reduces discomfort.
Confirmation begins with a visual inspection of the scalp and hair. Look for live insects, translucent nymphs, or brown, oval eggs attached close to the scalp surface. Use a bright light and a fine-toothed comb to separate strands; any found should be examined under magnification for definitive diagnosis.
Chemical agents constitute the first line of therapy. Over‑the‑counter products containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, combined with piperonyl butoxide, are applied to dry hair, left for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinsed. Repeat application after seven days eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the initial dose. Dimethicone‑based lotions act by coating and suffocating insects; they are applied to wet hair, left for 10–15 minutes, and do not rely on neurotoxic mechanisms, making them suitable for resistant cases.
Prescription options address resistant infestations. Malathion (0.5 %) is a contact insecticide applied to dry hair for 8–12 hours before washing; it requires a second treatment after nine days. Oral ivermectin, dosed at 200 µg/kg, is taken as a single dose and repeated after one week when topical measures fail or are impractical.
Mechanical removal complements chemical treatment. Wet combing with a fine lice comb removes live insects and eggs. Procedure: saturate hair with conditioner, comb from scalp outward in 1‑inch sections, rinse comb after each pass, and repeat for 10–15 minutes. Perform daily for three consecutive days, then twice weekly for two weeks to catch any hatching nits.
Environmental control limits reinfestation. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels 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. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward.
Follow‑up inspection occurs 14 days after the initial treatment. Absence of live lice confirms success; any remaining nits should be removed manually. Educate caregivers on avoiding head-to-head contact, discouraging sharing of combs, hats, or headphones, and conducting periodic checks during peak seasons.