How to fight household lice? - briefly
Wash bedding, clothing, and washable items in water at least 130 °F and dry on high heat; vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floor crevices thoroughly. Apply a health‑authority‑approved pediculicide to the infested individuals, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, and continue cleaning to prevent re‑infestation.
How to fight household lice? - in detail
Lice infestations in a residence require a systematic approach that combines personal treatment, thorough cleaning, and preventive habits.
First, confirm the presence of lice by examining hair and scalp for live insects or nits attached near the base of hair shafts. Use a fine-toothed comb on damp hair to improve visibility.
Second, apply an appropriate pediculicide to all affected individuals. Choose a product containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, following label instructions for dosage, exposure time, and repeat application after seven days to eliminate newly hatched nits. For resistant cases, consider a prescription‑only agent such as ivermectin or malathion, administered under medical supervision.
Third, eliminate environmental reservoirs:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the duration of the lice life cycle.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Soak hairbrushes, combs, and styling tools in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for 10 minutes or replace them.
Fourth, implement ongoing prevention:
- Encourage regular head inspections, especially after school or group activities.
- Advise against sharing hats, hair accessories, or personal grooming tools.
- Maintain short hair lengths where feasible, reducing attachment sites for eggs.
- Educate household members about transmission routes and the importance of prompt treatment.
Finally, monitor the situation for at least four weeks. Re‑examine all family members weekly; if live lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle and verify that environmental decontamination was thorough. Persistent infestation may warrant consultation with a dermatologist or an entomologist for specialized interventions.