Lice have appeared, what should be done to get rid of them? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide as directed, then comb out all nits with a fine‑toothed comb and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; wash or seal bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water to eliminate any surviving lice.
Lice have appeared, what should be done to get rid of them? - in detail
When lice are detected on a person’s scalp, immediate action is required to eliminate the parasites and prevent re‑infestation. The following procedures address detection, treatment, environmental control, and follow‑up monitoring.
The first step is confirmation. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, inspecting the comb’s teeth after each pass for live insects or nits attached to the hair shaft within a half‑inch of the scalp. If any are found, treat the entire household, as lice spread easily through close contact and shared items.
Treatment options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides: apply a FDA‑approved shampoo or lotion containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin. Follow the manufacturer’s timing instructions precisely; a second application after 7–10 days targets newly hatched nits that survived the first dose.
- Prescription agents: for resistant cases, oral ivermectin or topical benzyl alcohol 5 % lotion may be prescribed. Use only under medical supervision, observing contraindications.
- Mechanical removal: wet combing with a fine metal comb every 2–3 days for two weeks removes live insects and eggs without chemicals. This method is essential for infants, pregnant women, or individuals allergic to insecticides.
Environmental measures reduce the chance of recurrence:
- Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, the lifespan of a louse away from a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, headphones, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Monitoring continues after treatment. Inspect the scalp daily for the next two weeks, using a comb to verify the absence of live lice and viable nits. If any are discovered, repeat the appropriate treatment cycle promptly. Documenting the dates of each application and inspection helps track progress and informs healthcare providers if further intervention is needed.
By combining accurate detection, appropriate pharmacologic or mechanical therapy, rigorous decontamination of personal items, and systematic follow‑up, a lice infestation can be eradicated efficiently and sustainably.