How can lice be fought in an apartment? - briefly
«Lice» infestations in a dwelling require immediate removal of contaminated textiles, thorough vacuuming of carpets and furniture, and application of a regulated pediculicide to hair and scalp. Additional measures include sealing personal items in sealed bags for two weeks and inspecting all occupants daily.
How can lice be fought in an apartment? - in detail
Lice infestations in a residential unit require a systematic approach that combines thorough cleaning, targeted treatment, and ongoing prevention.
The first step is to isolate affected individuals and personal items. Clothing, bedding, and accessories should be placed in sealed plastic bags for at least 48 hours to deprive lice of a host.
Cleaning procedures include:
- Washing all washable fabrics at a minimum of 60 °C, followed by a high‑heat dryer cycle lasting at least 30 minutes.
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstered furniture, and floor seams with a high‑efficiency filter; disposing of the vacuum bag or emptying the canister into a sealed container.
- Wiping hard surfaces, door handles, and light switches with a disinfectant containing 0.5 % permethrin or an equivalent ectoparasitic agent.
Chemical treatment of the environment may involve applying a residual spray formulated for lice control to cracks, baseboards, and mattress seams. Products should be used according to manufacturer instructions, ensuring proper ventilation and avoidance of direct skin contact.
Personal treatment protocols consist of:
- Using a pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion, applied to hair and scalp for the recommended duration.
- Following with a fine‑toothed comb to mechanically remove live insects and nits; repeating the combing process after 7 days to capture newly hatched lice.
Preventive measures focus on reducing re‑infestation risk:
- Maintaining a regular schedule of laundering and vacuuming.
- Limiting head‑to‑head contact and avoiding the sharing of hats, combs, or pillows.
- Conducting periodic inspections of hair and bedding, especially after travel or contact with known cases.
Implementing these actions in a coordinated manner eliminates the current outbreak and minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.