How to cure lice in a child? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide shampoo or lotion for children, apply precisely as instructed, then comb out nits with a fine‑tooth comb after each treatment. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water and repeat the process in 7–10 days to prevent re‑infestation.
How to cure lice in a child? - in detail
Head lice infestations are diagnosed by detecting live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Confirmation should be performed with a fine-tooth comb on a well‑lit area; any uncovered nits indicate active infestation.
The primary therapeutic options are chemical and mechanical. Chemical treatments include over‑the‑counter preparations containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide. Apply according to the product label, leave for the recommended time (usually 10 minutes), then rinse. A second application is required 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched lice. Prescription agents such as 0.5 % malathion, 0.05 % benzyl alcohol lotion, or oral ivermectin are reserved for cases where resistance to first‑line products is suspected. All topical agents must be used on dry hair, avoiding the eyes and mucous membranes; excess product should be washed off after the specified duration.
Mechanical removal involves wet‑combing with a fine‑tooth nit comb. The procedure is:
- Wet hair with conditioner to reduce tangles.
- Section hair and run the comb from scalp to tip, wiping each pass on a white paper towel.
- Rinse and repeat every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
- Dispose of combed material and wash the comb in hot, soapy water after each use.
Environmental decontamination reduces re‑infestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C, then tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Preventive measures include:
- Advising children to avoid head‑to‑head contact during play.
- Prohibiting sharing of hats, hair accessories, or headphones.
- Conducting routine checks in schools or childcare settings, especially after known outbreaks.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, re‑evaluate for possible resistance, incorrect application, or reinfestation from untreated contacts. Consultation with a healthcare professional is warranted for persistent cases, allergic reactions, or when using prescription medications. Monitoring for secondary bacterial infection of scratched scalp lesions is essential; appropriate topical or oral antibiotics should be prescribed if infection is confirmed.