How to survive lice? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment, then comb the hair thoroughly with a fine‑tooth nit comb to remove all nits. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area to eliminate any remaining insects.
How to survive lice? - in detail
Detecting an infestation promptly prevents spread. Examine scalp and hair under bright light; look for live insects, nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp, or itching. Confirm presence before treatment.
Implement a treatment regimen immediately. Choose one of the following options, based on age and allergy history:
- Pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin. Apply to dry hair, leave for the time specified on the label, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
- Prescription medication such as 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin for resistant cases. Follow physician instructions precisely.
- Non‑chemical approach using a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb from scalp to tips, cleaning the comb after each pass. Perform daily for at least 10 days.
Sanitize personal items and the environment to remove residual eggs and insects:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Disinfect combs, brushes, and hair accessories by soaking in hot water (≥ 130 °F) for 10 minutes.
Educate all contacts to perform self‑examination and, if necessary, initiate the same treatment protocol. Schedule a follow‑up inspection 2 weeks after the initial application to confirm eradication.
Maintain preventive measures to reduce recurrence:
- Avoid sharing hats, hair accessories, or bedding.
- Encourage regular hair checks, especially in communal settings such as schools.
- Use a preventive nit‑comb routine once a week during peak seasons.
Adhering to this comprehensive protocol eliminates the infestation, limits transmission, and restores a lice‑free environment.