What chemicals are used to kill lice at a sanitary‑epidemiological station? - briefly
Sanitary‑epidemiological stations typically employ topical insecticides such as 1 % permethrin shampoo, 0.5 % malathion lotion, and, where permitted, 0.1 % ivermectin solution to eradicate head‑lice infestations. Additional options include carbaryl spray and, in legacy protocols, low‑dose lindane preparations.
What chemicals are used to kill lice at a sanitary‑epidemiological station? - in detail
The eradication of Pediculus humanus capitis in a public‑health facility relies on a limited group of approved insecticidal agents. These substances are selected for rapid knock‑down, residual activity, and compliance with national sanitary regulations.
-
Permethrin 1 % – synthetic pyrethroid; disrupts neuronal sodium channels, causing paralysis within minutes. Formulated as a shampoo or lotion, it is the first‑line product for mass treatment. Skin irritation is rare; contraindicated for infants under two months.
-
Malathion 0.5 % – organophosphate; inhibits acetylcholinesterase, leading to sustained neuromuscular excitation. Applied as a lotion, it remains effective for up to 10 days post‑application. Requires thorough rinsing; not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
-
Carbaryl (Sevin) 1 % – carbamate insecticide; reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Delivered as a spray or rinse, it offers a quick kill rate but has a higher toxicity profile. Use is limited to controlled environments with protective equipment.
-
Lindane 1 % – organochlorine; interferes with GABA‑mediated neurotransmission. Due to neurotoxic risks and environmental persistence, its use is restricted to cases where alternative agents fail and only under strict medical supervision.
-
Dimethicone 4 % – silicone‑based polymer; physically blocks the respiratory spiracles of lice, causing asphyxiation. Available as a lotion, it poses no systemic toxicity and is safe for all age groups, including infants.
-
Ivermectin 0.5 % – macrocyclic lactone; binds to glutamate‑gated chloride channels, leading to paralysis. Formulated as a topical cream, it is effective against resistant strains. Systemic absorption is minimal; contraindicated in patients with known ivermectin hypersensitivity.
-
Spinosad 0.9 % – bacterial‑derived insecticide; activates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, resulting in rapid paralysis. Offered as a lotion, it retains activity for several days and is approved for use in children over six months.
Each agent must be applied according to the official protocol: thorough wetting of hair and scalp, a minimum exposure period of 10 minutes, followed by rinsing and removal of dead insects with a fine‑toothed comb. Post‑treatment monitoring includes repeat examination after seven days to confirm the absence of viable lice and nits. Safety measures—gloves, eye protection, and ventilation—are mandatory for staff handling the chemicals.