What should be done if a child has fleas on their head? - briefly
Treat the scalp with a pediatric‑approved flea shampoo and comb the hair with a fine‑toothed comb to remove insects. Wash all bedding and clothing in hot water and consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.
What should be done if a child has fleas on their head? - in detail
Head‑lice infestation on a child’s scalp requires prompt, systematic action. First, verify the presence of live insects or viable eggs by parting the hair and examining the skin. If confirmed, separate the child from other children to prevent immediate spread.
The therapeutic phase consists of several precise steps:
- Apply an approved pediculicide — for example a 1 % permethrin lotion — according to the product’s instructions, ensuring thorough coverage from scalp to the tips of the hair.
- Allow the medication to remain for the specified contact time, then rinse with lukewarm water.
- Use a fine‑toothed comb to remove nymphs and nits; repeat combing at 2‑day intervals for at least one week.
- Perform a second application of the pediculicide after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment.
Environmental control is essential to avoid re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 60 °C or use a commercial lice‑killing spray on items that cannot be laundered.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags immediately.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks to starve any remaining lice.
Monitoring continues for two weeks after treatment. Conduct a visual inspection every three days; any residual live insects or viable eggs necessitate an additional treatment cycle. Document the dates of each intervention to ensure compliance with the recommended schedule.