What should be done if a child has lice on the head? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice treatment following the label directions and comb out nits with a fine-toothed comb. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the living area to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done if a child has lice on the head? - in detail
A reliable diagnosis begins with a thorough visual inspection of the scalp and hair. Look for live insects, translucent eggs attached close to the hair shaft, and small brown specks that may be nits. Use a fine-tooth comb on wet hair to improve visibility.
Once infestation is confirmed, separate the child from other students to prevent immediate spread. Notify the school or childcare facility so they can implement their own control measures. Begin treatment without delay.
Effective pharmacological options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin with piperonyl butoxide.
- Prescription lotions with 0.5 % malathion or 0.05 % ivermectin for resistant cases.
Apply the chosen product according to the manufacturer’s instructions: distribute evenly over dry hair, leave for the prescribed duration (typically 10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly. Do not use heat styling tools or hair sprays before treatment, as they can reduce efficacy.
After the initial application, remove nits with a fine-tooth nit comb. Perform combing at least twice daily for seven days, then repeat the chemical treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice. Dispose of combs and brushes in hot water (≥ 50 °C) after each use.
Environmental decontamination limits re‑infestation:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used in the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Do not fumigate the home; chemical sprays are unnecessary and may pose health risks.
Monitor the child’s hair daily for at least three weeks. If nits persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies or resistance testing.
Prevent future occurrences by teaching children to avoid head‑to‑head contact, to keep hats and hair accessories personal, and to refrain from sharing combs, brushes, or hair care products. Regular checks during peak seasons (late summer and early fall) provide early detection.