How to treat a group for lice? - briefly
Apply a licensed pediculicide to every individual in the group, following the label’s dosage and timing, and repeat the application after 7‑10 days to eliminate any newly emerged nits. Simultaneously launder all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in airtight containers for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
How to treat a group for lice? - in detail
Treating a collective lice infestation requires coordinated preparation, safe medication application, and systematic follow‑up.
Begin by confirming the presence of live nits or adult lice on each participant. Use a fine‑tooth comb on damp hair, inspecting the comb after each pass. Document positive cases to track progress.
Select an appropriate pediculicide. Permethrin 1 % lotion, pyrethrin‑based sprays, or dimethicone‑based products are FDA‑approved for mass use. Verify that the chosen formulation is approved for the age range present; infants under two months typically require non‑chemical options such as wet‑combing.
Apply the medication according to the manufacturer’s instructions:
- Separate hair into manageable sections.
- Apply the product uniformly, ensuring coverage from scalp to hair tips.
- Allow the recommended exposure time (usually 10 minutes for permethrin, 30 minutes for dimethicone).
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water; avoid hot water that may irritate the scalp.
After treatment, perform a wet‑combing session with a nit‑comb. Process each head at least three times over a 7‑day period, removing any residual nits.
Implement environmental control:
- Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats to eliminate stray lice.
Schedule a second application 7–10 days after the initial dose to target any newly hatched insects. Conduct a final inspection on day 14; if live lice remain, repeat the full protocol.
Educate the group on preventive measures: discourage sharing of hats, hairbrushes, or headphones; maintain regular head‑checking routines; and limit close head‑to‑head contact during outbreaks.
Maintain records of each treatment round, noting dates, products used, and outcomes. This documentation supports rapid response if reinfestation occurs and provides a clear audit trail for health authorities.