What should be done if children have lice? - briefly
Apply an approved pediculicide shampoo (e.g., permethrin or pyrethrin) and comb out all nits with a fine‑toothed comb. Wash clothing, bedding, and hats in hot water, vacuum upholstered surfaces, and inform close contacts to repeat treatment after seven days.
What should be done if children have lice? - in detail
If a child is found to have head lice, immediate action is required to stop the spread and eliminate the infestation. The following steps provide a systematic approach.
- Confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits by examining the scalp with a fine-tooth comb under bright light. Focus on the nape of the neck, behind the ears, and the crown.
- Choose an appropriate treatment:
• Over‑the‑counter pediculicide shampoo or lotion containing permethrin (1 %) or pyrethrin, applied according to the product label.
• Prescription‑only options such as malathion, benzyl alcohol lotion, or ivermectin for resistant cases. - Apply the product precisely: wet the hair, distribute the medication evenly, leave it on for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid using hair dryers or heat styling tools during treatment.
- Comb the hair with a fine-tooth lice comb while still damp. Remove all visible lice and nits, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing process at least twice a day for one week.
- Perform a second application of the pediculicide after 7–10 days to kill any newly hatched lice that survived the first treatment.
- Clean personal items and the environment:
• Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑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 afterward. - Educate caregivers and peers about avoiding head‑to‑head contact, not sharing hats, hair accessories, or personal grooming tools.
- Schedule a follow‑up inspection 2–3 weeks after the final treatment to verify eradication. If live lice persist, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapy.
These measures, applied consistently, eradicate the infestation and minimize recurrence.