Lice have appeared, what should be done? - briefly
Apply an approved lice treatment to the scalp and wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water. Re‑inspect after 7–10 days and repeat the treatment if any live lice are found.
Lice have appeared, what should be done? - in detail
Head‑to‑head lice infestations require immediate identification, thorough treatment, and environmental control.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits within two centimeters of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth comb on damp hair, inspecting each strand from the crown to the ends.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label. Options include:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for ten minutes, then rinsed.
- Dimethicone‑based creams, left for the recommended duration before washing.
- Benzyl alcohol lotion, applied for ten minutes, then removed.
A second application, typically seven to ten days after the first, eliminates newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial dose.
Third, remove all viable nits manually. Comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb while the hair remains damp; repeat every two to three days for two weeks.
Fourth, decontaminate personal items:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to capture stray insects.
Fifth, educate all contacts. Inform family members, classmates, and caregivers of the infestation, advise them to inspect their hair, and recommend preventive measures such as avoiding head‑to‑head contact and not sharing combs, hats, or headphones.
Finally, monitor for recurrence. Conduct weekly examinations for four weeks after treatment. If live lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle or consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies.