What can help a child with lice? - briefly
Effective treatment includes a pediculicide lotion or shampoo containing permethrin or pyrethrin, applied as directed and followed by thorough combing with a fine‑toothed nit comb. Washing clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and vacuuming the environment helps prevent reinfestation.
What can help a child with lice? - in detail
Lice infestations in children require immediate and systematic action to eliminate the parasites and prevent re‑infestation.
Effective measures combine direct removal, appropriate medication, and environmental sanitation.
Mechanical removal
- Use a fine‑tooth lice comb on damp hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends.
- Comb each section several times, cleaning the comb after each pass with hot water.
- Repeat the process every 2–3 days for at least two weeks to catch newly hatched nits.
Over‑the‑counter pediculicides
- Products containing permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin 1 % are commonly recommended.
- Apply to dry hair, leave for the time specified on the label, then rinse thoroughly.
- Do not use on children under the age indicated by the manufacturer.
Prescription‑strength options
- Malathion 0.5 % lotion, applied for 8–12 hours, is effective when resistance to permethrin is suspected.
- Ivermectin oral tablets, dosed at 200 µg/kg, may be prescribed for resistant cases.
- Both treatments require physician approval and adherence to dosage instructions.
Environmental control
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up and monitoring
- Inspect the child’s hair every 3–4 days for live lice or viable nits.
- Conduct a second treatment 7–10 days after the initial application to target any surviving eggs.
- Notify schools or childcare facilities promptly to coordinate screening of other children.
Adhering to this multi‑step protocol maximizes eradication success and minimizes the likelihood of recurrence.