Lice have infested the house, what should be done? - briefly
Eliminate the insects by applying an approved lice shampoo to all hair, laundering clothing and bedding in hot water, and thoroughly vacuuming furnishings; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to catch newly hatched lice. Seal or discard heavily infested items that cannot be cleaned.
Lice have infested the house, what should be done? - in detail
A lice infestation in a residence requires immediate, systematic action to eradicate the pests and prevent re‑colonization.
First, isolate all affected individuals. Examine hair and scalp with a fine‑toothed comb, separating sections to locate live insects and nits. Remove each nit manually; a metal lice comb, used on wet hair with conditioner, increases success.
Second, treat the entire household with an approved pediculicide. Follow label instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Repeat the application after seven to ten days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment.
Third, decontaminate personal items:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks, a period exceeding the lice life cycle.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters afterward.
Fourth, treat the environment. Apply a residual insecticide spray to baseboards, cracks, and crevices where lice may hide, adhering to safety guidelines. Consider professional pest‑control services for extensive contamination.
Fifth, implement preventive measures:
- Instruct all household members to avoid sharing combs, hats, pillows, and personal grooming tools.
- Conduct weekly inspections for at least one month following treatment.
- Maintain hair hygiene by regular washing and combing with a lice‑comb.
Finally, document the process. Record dates of examinations, treatments applied, and items decontaminated. This log assists in identifying any lapses and supports communication with healthcare providers if symptoms persist.
By executing these steps methodically, the infestation can be eliminated and the risk of recurrence minimized.