How can you avoid catching lice when in contact with an infected person? - briefly
Prevent head‑to‑head contact and do not share hats, combs, hair accessories, or other personal items. After any possible exposure, wash the hair thoroughly and examine the scalp for nits.
How can you avoid catching lice when in contact with an infected person? - in detail
To prevent acquiring head lice after exposure to an infested individual, adopt a systematic approach that combines personal practices, environmental controls, and early detection.
First, eliminate direct head‑to‑head contact. This includes avoiding close play, sharing hats, scarves, helmets, hairbrushes, combs, or hair accessories. When contact is unavoidable, keep hair tied back or covered with a barrier such as a tightly fitted cap that does not touch the scalp.
Second, maintain strict personal hygiene. Wash hands thoroughly after touching another person’s hair or belongings. Shower promptly after any suspected exposure, using lukewarm water to rinse the scalp. While lice are not transmitted through bathing, a clean scalp reduces the chance that nits will adhere.
Third, sanitize shared items. Soak combs, brushes, hair clips, and hats in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) for at least 10 minutes. Items that cannot be heated should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks, a period that exceeds the lice life cycle.
Fourth, treat the environment. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove detached lice or eggs. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels worn or used by the infected person in hot water and dry on high heat. For non‑washable fabrics, seal them in airtight containers for two weeks.
Fifth, conduct regular inspections. Examine the scalp and hair at least twice weekly, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and crown. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on damp, conditioned hair to detect live insects or nits. Early identification enables prompt treatment and prevents further spread.
Sixth, consider prophylactic products. Apply over‑the‑counter repellents containing dimethicone or essential‑oil blends (e.g., tea tree oil) to the hair surface before anticipated contact. These agents create a physical barrier that deters lice from attaching.
Finally, educate all participants. Ensure that everyone who may interact with the infested individual understands the transmission risks and follows the preventive measures consistently. Consistent application of these steps dramatically lowers the probability of becoming infested after exposure.