How to eliminate lice in a sister? - briefly
Use a 1 % permethrin shampoo, apply it as directed, rinse, repeat after seven days, and follow with a fine‑toothed comb to remove nits. Clean personal items, vacuum upholstery, and wash bedding in hot water to prevent re‑infestation.
How to eliminate lice in a sister? - in detail
Lice infestation in a sibling requires prompt, systematic action to eradicate the parasites and prevent reinfestation.
Initial assessment involves confirming the presence of live nits or adult insects on the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth comb on wet hair, parting sections from the crown to the neck. Visible nits attached within a quarter of an inch from the scalp indicate an active infestation.
Effective treatment follows several concurrent steps:
- Apply a pediculicide approved for pediatric use, following label instructions precisely. Options include dimethicone‑based lotions, permethrin 1 % cream rinse, or malathion 0.5 % solution.
- Allow the product to remain on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- After drying, comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb, removing each dead or live egg. Repeat the combing process at 2‑day intervals for a total of three sessions.
- If resistance or allergic reaction is suspected, consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength treatment such as ivermectin or spinosad.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of re‑infestation:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Monitoring continues for at least four weeks. Examine the scalp twice weekly; any new nits require immediate repeat of the combing protocol. Communication with schools or childcare facilities ensures that all contacts receive appropriate screening and treatment, breaking the transmission cycle.
Adherence to this structured regimen eliminates head lice from a sibling and minimizes recurrence.