What must be done to get rid of lice? - briefly
Use a pediculicide treatment (e.g., permethrin 1% lotion or dimethicone) applied to the scalp, then comb out all viable nits with a fine-tooth lice comb; finally, launder bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water or seal them in plastic bags for two weeks to prevent reinfestation.
What must be done to get rid of lice? - in detail
Effective elimination of head lice requires a systematic approach that combines immediate treatment, thorough cleaning of personal items, and preventive measures to avoid reinfestation.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs (nits) attached to hair shafts close to the scalp. Use a fine-tooth comb on damp hair, inspecting each section for movement or oval-shaped nits.
Next, apply an approved pediculicide. Options include:
- 1% permethrin lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- 0.5% malathion shampoo, left for 8 minutes before washing.
- Dimethicone‑based products, which coat and suffocate insects without resistance concerns.
Follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions precisely; misuse can reduce efficacy and increase toxicity risk. After the initial application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate newly hatched lice that survived the first round.
Concurrently, remove nits mechanically:
- Section hair into small sections.
- Run a fine‑tooth nit comb from scalp outward, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Repeat the combing process daily for at least one week.
Sanitize personal items to eliminate residual parasites:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., hats, hair accessories) in airtight bags for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags afterward.
Prevent future outbreaks by instituting these habits:
- Instruct children to avoid head‑to‑head contact during play.
- Prohibit sharing of combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
- Conduct weekly scalp inspections during peak transmission seasons.
- Maintain a supply of an over‑the‑counter treatment for rapid response.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, or if allergic reactions develop, seek medical evaluation for prescription‑strength options such as oral ivermectin or spinosad lotion.