One-year-old child has lice – what to do? - briefly
Use a lice treatment approved for children under two, follow the label directions, and comb out nits with a fine-tooth nit comb while the product acts. After treatment, wash all clothing, bedding, and toys in hot water, vacuum the home, and repeat the process in 7‑10 days to eliminate any surviving lice.
One-year-old child has lice – what to do? - in detail
An infant who presents with head‑lice infestation requires immediate, safe, and systematic action.
First, confirm the presence of live nits or adult lice by examining the scalp under bright light. Use a fine‑toothed comb to separate hair strands; viable lice are brownish and move quickly, while nits are oval, firmly attached near the hair shaft.
Next, select an appropriate treatment method. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin are approved for children over two years; for a twelve‑month‑old, a pediatrician‑prescribed 0.5 % malathion lotion or a silicone‑based “no‑nit” conditioner may be recommended. Apply the product according to the label, ensuring the infant’s head is covered and the scalp remains wet for the specified duration. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, avoiding harsh scrubbing that could irritate the skin.
After chemical treatment, perform a meticulous combing session with a fine nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. This mechanical removal eliminates residual nits and reduces the risk of re‑infestation.
Simultaneously, decontaminate the environment. Wash all bedding, clothing, and washable toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Non‑washable items should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 48 hours, as lice cannot survive beyond this period without a host. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to capture any stray lice or eggs.
Monitor the infant’s scalp daily for signs of persistent infestation, such as itching, redness, or the reappearance of live lice. If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, or if an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, breathing difficulty) occurs, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Finally, educate caregivers about preventive measures: avoid sharing hats, brushes, or hair accessories; limit close head‑to‑head contact with other children during outbreaks; and conduct routine scalp checks in settings where lice are common (daycare, preschool).
Following these steps ensures effective eradication while minimizing risk to the child’s delicate skin.