What should be done and how to treat lice? - briefly
Use an FDA‑approved pediculicide followed by a fine‑toothed nit comb, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days, and wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water. Inspect close contacts and re‑apply the same protocol if new lice are detected.
What should be done and how to treat lice? - in detail
Detecting an infestation promptly prevents spread. Examine the scalp under bright light, part hair in sections, and look for live nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine‑tooth comb to pull out any visible lice or eggs.
Choose a treatment method based on age, health status, and local resistance patterns. Options include:
- Prescription pediculicides – permethrin 1 % or ivermectin lotion applied according to label; repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched insects.
- Over‑the‑counter preparations – pyrethrin‑based sprays or shampoos; verify concentration and follow manufacturer’s re‑application schedule.
- Non‑chemical approaches – wet‑combing with a metal fine-tooth comb for 10 minutes per session, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks; suffocating agents such as dimethicone lotion applied for 10 minutes before removal.
- Prescription oral medication – ivermectin tablets for resistant cases, dosage adjusted to body weight.
Implement mechanical removal after any chemical treatment. Comb the hair while still damp, wiping the comb after each pass. Dispose of collected nits by sealing them in a plastic bag and discarding.
Sanitize the environment to reduce reinfestation risk:
- 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 in a sealed bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the situation for at least three weeks. If live lice reappear after the second application, repeat the chosen pediculicide or switch to an alternative class. Persistent cases may require dermatologist evaluation for potential secondary infection or resistance testing.
Education reduces recurrence. Instruct affected individuals to avoid head-to-head contact, to keep hair tied back if long, and to perform weekly checks for at least one month after treatment. Parents should inform schools of confirmed cases so that coordinated screening can occur.