How should I treat lice in a child? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide such as 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % malathion to dry hair, leave it for the recommended time, then remove nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and eliminate sharing of combs, hats, or hair accessories.
How should I treat lice in a child? - in detail
Treating head‑lice infestation in a child requires accurate identification, prompt treatment, thorough removal of nits, and environmental decontamination.
First, confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair, inspecting the comb after each pass.
Select an appropriate pediculicide:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed. Re‑treat after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched insects.
- Pyrethrin combined with piperonyl‑butoxide, applied similarly; repeat in one week.
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion for resistant cases; leave on for 8–12 hours, then wash out. Follow with a second application after 7 days.
- Prescription ivermectin 0.5 % lotion or oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) for severe or refractory infestations; dosage repeated after 7 days.
When using any chemical product, follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding age limits, dosage, and contraindications. Avoid applying to broken skin or near the eyes. After treatment, rinse hair thoroughly and dry completely.
Mechanical removal:
- Wet the hair with a conditioner to loosen nits.
- Run a fine‑toothed nit comb from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Perform combing sessions daily for at least 10 days, then twice weekly for an additional two weeks.
Environmental measures:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward.
- Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Monitoring:
- Inspect the child’s scalp every 2–3 days for live insects or viable nits.
- Continue treatment until no live lice are observed for at least 24 hours.
- Inform close contacts (family members, classmates) so they can examine and treat if necessary.
Document any adverse reactions, such as skin irritation or allergic response, and consult a healthcare professional promptly if they occur.