How can lice be disinfected? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide to the scalp following label instructions, then wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in water at 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in airtight containers for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.
How can lice be disinfected? - in detail
Lice infestations require a multi‑step approach that targets both the insects on the host and the surrounding environment.
First, treat the affected person. Available options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription agents such as malathion (0.5 %), ivermectin lotion (0.5 %), or spinosad (0.9 %). Use according to medical guidance, especially for resistant cases.
- Wet combing with a fine‑toothed lice comb. After applying a conditioning agent to ease detangling, comb the hair in sections from scalp to ends, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to capture newly hatched nymphs.
Second, disinfect personal items and surroundings:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C / 140 °F) for at least 10 minutes, then tumble‑dry on high heat for 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (hats, hair accessories) in a sealed plastic bag for 2 weeks; lice cannot survive beyond 48 hours without a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove stray nymphs and eggs; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Apply heat treatment using a specialized lice‑removing device that raises the temperature of hair and scalp to 50 °C for a prescribed duration, eliminating both live insects and viable eggs.
Third, monitor and repeat:
- Perform a follow‑up inspection 7–10 days after initial treatment. Remove any remaining nymphs or eggs using the combing method.
- Conduct a second chemical treatment, if indicated, after the recommended interval (usually 7 days) to address any survivors.
By combining chemical or prescription products with thorough mechanical removal and strict sanitation of personal and household items, the infestation can be eradicated and the risk of recurrence minimized.