If children have lice, how to avoid infection? - briefly
Treat the infested child with an approved pediculicide, wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water, and clean the home environment by vacuuming and disinfecting surfaces; simultaneously inspect and, if necessary, treat all close contacts to prevent further spread.
If children have lice, how to avoid infection? - in detail
Head lice spread primarily through direct head‑to‑head contact, but sharing hats, hairbrushes, or pillows can also transmit the insects. The risk increases in crowded settings such as schools or daycare centers where children interact closely.
When an infestation is identified, take the following actions immediately:
- Confirm the presence of live nits or adult lice by examining the scalp with a fine‑tooth comb under bright light.
- Isolate the affected child from close contact with other children until treatment begins.
- Notify caregivers, teachers, and anyone else who may have been exposed so they can inspect their own children.
- Begin an approved pediculicide treatment according to the product label, typically a 10‑minute application followed by a repeat dose after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice.
Effective treatment options include:
- Over‑the‑counter insecticides such as permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based shampoos. Follow the exact timing and dosage instructions; resistance to these agents is documented, so a second‑line prescription (e.g., malathion or ivermectin) may be required if the infestation persists.
- Prescription oral medications like ivermectin tablets, administered in a single dose and repeated after one week when topical agents fail.
- Mechanical removal using a fine‑tooth nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Comb every 2–3 days for two weeks to eliminate surviving nits that survived chemical treatment.
Environmental control reduces re‑infestation:
- Wash the child’s bedding, towels, and clothing in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals, helmets) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, depriving lice of a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
- Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, hair clips, and hats until the infestation is cleared.
After treatment, continue weekly scalp inspections for at least four weeks. Any newly detected lice require immediate retreatment and a repeat of the environmental steps. Educate children on avoiding head contact during play and encourage personal hygiene practices, such as not sharing hair accessories, to minimize future outbreaks.