What should be done if children get lice? - briefly
Inspect the child's hair, remove live lice and nits with a fine‑toothed comb, and apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide according to the label. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water, vacuum the environment, and repeat treatment after seven days to eliminate any newly hatched insects.
What should be done if children get lice? - in detail
When a child is discovered to have head‑lice, immediate action reduces spread and eases discomfort. First, isolate the affected child from close contact with peers for at least 24 hours after treatment begins. Confirm the infestation by examining the scalp with a fine‑toothed comb; look for live insects or viable nits attached within ¼ inch of the hair shaft.
Select an appropriate pediculicide. Options include dimethicone‑based lotions, 1 % permethrin shampoo, or 0.5 % malathion liquid. Follow the product label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. For resistance concerns, consider a non‑chemical silicone treatment, which suffocates the insects.
After the initial application, repeat treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first round. During the interval, comb the hair daily with a fine‑toothed nit comb, removing any visible nits. Dispose of combed material by placing it in a sealed bag and discarding it.
Clean personal items and the environment to prevent re‑infestation. Wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and tumble‑dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Educate caregivers and classmates about detection and prevention. Encourage regular head checks, especially after group activities, and discourage sharing of hats, hairbrushes, or headphones. Prompt reporting of any suspected cases allows swift intervention.
Document the incident in the school’s health log, noting the date of diagnosis, treatment used, and follow‑up actions. This record supports monitoring of outbreaks and facilitates communication with health authorities if a larger problem arises.