We cannot get rid of lice from a child; what should we do? - briefly
Treat the child with an FDA‑approved pediculicide, comb out all live insects and nits, and launder clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water; repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly emerged lice. Prevent reinfestation by checking all household members and performing regular head‑comb inspections.
We cannot get rid of lice from a child; what should we do? - in detail
When a child continues to host head lice after initial attempts, a systematic approach is required. First, verify the presence of live insects by examining the scalp with a fine-tooth comb under bright light. Remove all visible nits and lice, repeating the combing process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks.
Next, select an appropriate pediculicide. Choose a product that contains either 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Apply the lotion or shampoo to dry hair, leave it for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid re‑application within 7 days unless a second‑generation product is prescribed.
If chemical treatment fails, consider non‑chemical alternatives:
- Wet‑comb method – soak hair for 10 minutes, then comb with a fine‑tooth nit comb from scalp to ends.
- Dimethicone‑based lotions – coat hair with silicone oil to suffocate insects.
- Heat treatment – use a specialized lice‑removal device that delivers controlled heat to the scalp.
Environmental control complements personal treatment. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard hair accessories that cannot be decontaminated.
Inform close contacts, such as classmates and caregivers, so they can inspect their own children and initiate preventive measures. Encourage regular head checks for at least one month after the last live lice is observed.
If infestation persists despite these steps, seek medical evaluation. Prescription‑strength agents, such as 0.025 % malathion or oral ivermectin, may be indicated under professional supervision. Continuous monitoring and adherence to the outlined protocol ensure effective eradication.