How should a child's lice be treated? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved lice treatment (e.g., a 1% permethrin lotion) applied to the scalp for the recommended time, then comb out all nits with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How should a child's lice be treated? - in detail
Effective management of head‑lice infestation in a child involves three coordinated actions: medication, environmental decontamination, and follow‑up monitoring.
First, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include 1% permethrin lotion, 0.5% malathion shampoo, or dimethicone‑based products. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. For children under two years, avoid chemical agents and use dimethicone, which suffices without systemic absorption. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial dose.
Second, remove live insects and eggs manually. Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp, pull the comb through each strand, and wipe the teeth after each pass. Perform combing every 2–3 days for two weeks. Dispose of combed material by flushing or sealing in a plastic bag.
Third, sanitize personal items and the immediate environment. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered may be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to direct sunlight for 48 hours. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag afterward. Avoid excessive use of insecticides on surfaces, as they provide limited benefit.
Fourth, educate caregivers and the child about transmission prevention. Encourage avoidance of head‑to‑head contact, sharing of hats, hairbrushes, or headphones. Regularly inspect the scalp, especially after school or group activities, to detect recurrence early.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination 2–3 weeks after the initial treatment. Confirm the absence of live lice and viable eggs. If infestation persists, consider an alternative pediculicide or consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.
Adhering to this systematic protocol maximizes eradication success while minimizing re‑infestation risk.