What are lice and how can they be eliminated?

What are lice and how can they be eliminated? - briefly

Lice are tiny wing‑less insects that inhabit the scalp, attach to hair shafts, and feed on human blood. Effective eradication combines topical insecticides such as permethrin or pyrethrin, meticulous combing with a fine‑tooth nit comb, laundering of clothing and bedding at ≥60 °C, and a repeat treatment 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched nits.

What are lice and how can they be eliminated? - in detail

Lice are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp, body, or clothing of humans and animals. They feed on blood, causing itching, irritation, and possible secondary infections. Three species affect humans: head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis), body lice (Pediculus humanus corporis), and pubic lice (Pthirus pubis). Head lice attach their eggs, called nits, to hair shafts near the scalp; body lice lay eggs on fabric; pubic lice inhabit coarse hair in the genital area.

Elimination requires a systematic approach:

1. Physical removal

   • Use a fine-toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair to separate lice and extract nits.
   • Comb from the scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass.
   • Repeat the process every 2–3 days for two weeks.

2. Chemical treatment

   • Apply a pediculicide containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin with a synergist.
   • Follow label instructions precisely, covering the scalp and hair for the recommended duration.
   • Rinse thoroughly and repeat after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched lice.

3. Environmental control

   • Wash bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
   • Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours to starve lice.
   • Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture to remove stray hairs containing nits.

4. Alternative options

   • Dimethicone‑based lotions suffocate lice without neurotoxic chemicals.
   • Oral ivermectin, prescribed by a physician, treats resistant infestations.
   • Essential‑oil formulations (e.g., tea tree oil) have limited evidence and should be used with caution.

5. Follow‑up

   • Inspect the scalp daily for live lice or viable nits.
   • Continue combing for at least one week after the last treatment.
   • Notify close contacts (family members, classmates) so they can check and treat if necessary.

Effective eradication combines thorough mechanical removal, appropriate topical or systemic medication, and diligent cleaning of personal items. Prompt, repeated action prevents re‑infestation and minimizes discomfort.