What should be done for a 1‑year‑old child with lice? - briefly
Apply a pediatric‑safe lice medication as directed, comb out all nits with a fine‑tooth nit comb, and wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and toys in hot water.
What should be done for a 1‑year‑old child with lice? - in detail
A thorough approach is required when an infant under twelve months is found to have head‑lice.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the scalp for live lice and viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft. Use a fine‑toothed lice comb on wet, conditioned hair; a bright light helps spot the insects.
Second, choose a treatment that is safe for a child of this age. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing permethrin or pyrethrins are not approved for infants younger than two years. The recommended options are:
- Prescription‑only topical lotion (e.g., 1 % lindane or 0.5 % malathion) prescribed by a pediatrician after evaluating contraindications.
- Manual removal: Apply a gentle, pediatric‑approved conditioner to loosen the eggs, then comb through the hair with a fine lice comb. Repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch newly hatched lice.
Third, follow the treatment protocol precisely. If a prescription lotion is used, apply it to dry hair, leave it on for the specified duration (usually 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. Do not reuse the same product without a second application after 7–10 days, as eggs may survive the first treatment.
Fourth, decontaminate the environment to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels worn or used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a sealed plastic bag for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, brushes, hats, or hair accessories until the infestation is cleared.
Fifth, monitor the child’s scalp daily for signs of surviving lice or secondary skin irritation. If live insects are still present after the second treatment, or if the child develops intense itching, redness, or a rash, seek immediate medical evaluation.
Finally, educate caregivers about prevention: discourage head‑to‑head contact with other children, avoid sharing personal items, and perform routine scalp checks during preschool seasons.