How to treat children for lice prevention? - briefly
Frequent head inspections and immediate nits removal with a fine‑toothed comb halt infestation spread. Apply an FDA‑approved 1 % permethrin or dimeticone lotion according to label instructions, repeat after seven days, and ensure regular laundering of bedding and clothing.
How to treat children for lice prevention? - in detail
Effective prevention of head‑lice infestations in children requires a combination of routine hygiene practices, environmental controls, and prompt treatment of detected cases. Regular inspection of the scalp, especially behind the ears and at the nape of the neck, should be performed at least once a week during peak seasons. Early detection reduces the need for extensive chemical intervention.
Key measures include:
- Use of a fine‑toothed lice comb on dry hair after each wash; comb through the entire length, repeating until no live insects or nits are visible.
- Application of a preventive shampoo containing dimethicone or tea‑tree oil, following label instructions and ensuring thorough coverage of the scalp.
- Daily washing of personal items such as hats, scarves, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Regular laundering of bedding and clothing worn by the child; items not suitable for washing should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Education of the child to avoid head‑to‑head contact during play and to keep personal items separate from peers.
If an infestation is confirmed, the treatment protocol consists of:
- Administration of a pediculicide approved for pediatric use, such as a 1 % permethrin lotion, applied to dry hair and left for the specified duration before rinsing.
- Immediate repetition of the treatment after seven days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs that survived the first application.
- Post‑treatment combing with a lice comb to remove residual nits; repeat combing every 48 hours for one week.
- Notification of close contacts (classmates, caregivers) so they can inspect and, if necessary, treat their own children.
Monitoring continues for four weeks after the final treatment. Absence of live lice and nits during weekly inspections confirms successful eradication. Maintaining the outlined routine minimizes recurrence and protects the child's health and comfort.