How to eliminate lice for the whole family? - briefly
Apply a WHO‑approved pediculicide to each family member’s hair, comb thoroughly with a fine‑toothed lice comb for at least 10 minutes, repeat the treatment after 7‑10 days, and wash all bedding, clothing, and personal items in water ≥130 °F (54 °C). Continue regular hair inspections and avoid sharing combs, hats, or pillows to keep the infestation from returning.
How to eliminate lice for the whole family? - in detail
Lice infestations affect every member of a household, so a coordinated approach is essential. Begin with a thorough inspection of each person’s hair and scalp. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Examine the comb after each pass; live insects or viable eggs (nits) indicate active infestation.
Treatment protocol for all individuals
- Select an approved pediculicide – choose a product containing either 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the manufacturer’s age restrictions. Apply to dry hair, saturating the scalp and shafts, then leave for the prescribed duration (usually 10 minutes). Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
- Repeat application – a second dose after 7–10 days eliminates newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment.
- Alternative options – for resistant cases, consider a prescription‑only lotion with 0.5 % malathion or a silicone‑based suffocation product. Use only under medical supervision.
- Manual removal – after each chemical treatment, comb wet hair with a fine-toothed lice comb at least twice a day for three consecutive days. Remove each nit by cutting the hair strand close to the scalp if the comb cannot release it.
Environmental decontamination
- Clothing and linens – place all washable items (sheets, pillowcases, towels, hats, scarves) in hot water (≥ 130 °F / 54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Non‑washable fabrics should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Personal items – soak combs, brushes, hair accessories, and headbands in hot, soapy water for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry.
- Household surfaces – vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats. Discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately after use.
- Non‑washable items – store in airtight containers for a minimum of 48 hours; lice cannot survive beyond this period without a host.
Preventive measures
- Instruct family members to avoid sharing headgear, hairbrushes, and personal care items.
- Encourage regular scalp checks, especially after school or camp attendance.
- Maintain short hair lengths where feasible; shorter hair reduces the number of attachment sites.
- Apply a repellant spray containing essential oils (e.g., tea tree, lavender) as a supplemental barrier, noting that such products do not replace approved treatments.
Follow‑up assessment
- Conduct a final inspection one week after the second chemical treatment. Absence of live lice and nits confirms eradication.
- Document any adverse reactions to pediculicides and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
By synchronizing treatment, cleaning, and prevention across all family members, the infestation can be eradicated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimized.