Lice in the whole family: what to do? - briefly
Apply a lice‑killing shampoo or lotion to every family member at the same time, then wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (at least 130 °F) and vacuum the home; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
Lice in the whole family: what to do? - in detail
A household-wide infestation of head lice demands coordinated action. Begin with a thorough inspection of every person’s hair, using a fine-toothed comb under bright light. Separate those who test positive and treat them simultaneously to prevent re‑infestation.
Treatment protocol
- Apply a pediculicide approved for all ages, following label instructions exactly.
- After the recommended exposure time, rinse hair thoroughly.
- Repeat the application after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched lice.
- For infants and pregnant individuals, choose a non‑chemical option such as silicone‑based lotion or a thorough combing regimen.
Environmental control
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Soak hair accessories (combs, brushes, hats) in hot water for at least ten minutes, then dry on high heat.
Preventive measures
- Advise each family member to avoid sharing personal items that contact hair.
- Encourage regular weekly combing with a lice detection comb, especially after school or camp activities.
- Inform schools or childcare centers of the outbreak so they can implement their own screening procedures.
Follow‑up
- Schedule a second inspection 10–14 days after the initial treatment to verify eradication.
- If live lice are still present, repeat the full treatment cycle or consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.
Consistent application of these steps across all occupants eliminates the parasite and minimizes the risk of recurrence.