Lice all over the body, what should be done? - briefly
Treat the entire skin with a licensed pediculicide (shampoo, lotion, or spray) according to the product’s instructions, then repeat the application after 7–10 days. Clean all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in airtight containers for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.
Lice all over the body, what should be done? - in detail
A full‑body infestation of head‑lice, body‑lice, or both requires prompt, systematic treatment to eradicate the parasites and prevent re‑colonisation.
First, identify the type of lice present. Head‑lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) cling to hair shafts, while body‑lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) live on clothing and lay eggs on the skin. Accurate identification guides the choice of products and hygiene measures.
Chemical control
- Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide containing permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin with piperonyl‑butoxide to the scalp, following the label’s timing instructions.
- For body‑lice, treat clothing and bedding with a 0.5 % permethrin spray or soak items in hot water (≥ 50 °C) for at least 30 minutes, then dry on high heat.
- Repeat the application after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nymphs that survived the first dose.
- If resistance is suspected, consider a prescription‑only agent such as malathion 0.5 % or ivermectin lotion, administered under medical supervision.
Mechanical removal
- Comb wet hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb at 5‑minute intervals for 10 minutes, then again after 24 hours.
- Use disposable gloves to pinch and discard visible nits from hair shafts.
- Wash all personal items (hats, scarves, towels) in hot water, then tumble‑dry on high heat.
Environmental sanitation
- Seal non‑washable items (stuffed toys, pillows) in plastic bags for two weeks, the lifespan of a louse egg.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and vehicle seats thoroughly; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Replace or launder curtains and drapes that may harbor eggs.
Preventive steps
- Encourage regular self‑inspection of scalp and body, especially after travel or close contact with infested individuals.
- Advise against sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or clothing.
- Educate family members on the life cycle: eggs hatch in 7–10 days, nymphs mature in another 7–10 days, and adult lice survive up to 30 days without a host. Understanding this timeline informs the timing of repeat treatments.
Medical follow‑up
- Schedule a check‑up 2–3 weeks after the final treatment to confirm eradication.
- Seek professional evaluation if irritation, secondary infection, or persistent infestation occurs.
By combining targeted chemical agents, meticulous manual removal, thorough decontamination of garments and surroundings, and ongoing monitoring, a comprehensive approach eliminates the infestation and minimizes the risk of recurrence.