What should be done if lice are found on a child's head?

What should be done if lice are found on a child's head? - briefly

Inspect the scalp, remove live lice and nits with a fine‑tooth comb, and treat the child with an approved pediculicide according to the product instructions; then launder clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water or seal them in a plastic bag for two weeks to prevent re‑infestation.

What should be done if lice are found on a child's head? - in detail

When live insects are discovered on a child’s scalp, begin with a thorough inspection. Use a fine‑toothed comb on wet hair, starting at the roots and moving toward the ends, to confirm the presence of nits and adult lice. Separate the comb strokes for each section to avoid cross‑contamination.

1. Choose an appropriate treatment

   • Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective for most cases. Follow the label precisely, applying the product to dry hair, leaving it for the recommended duration, then rinsing completely.
   • For resistant infestations, prescription options such as 0.5 % malathion or oral ivermectin may be required; consult a healthcare professional before use.
   • Non‑chemical methods include repeated wet‑combing with a metal lice comb every 2–3 days for two weeks, combined with a cleansing shampoo to remove debris.

2. Treat the environment

   • Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
   • Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks.
   • Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to eliminate fallen nits; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.

3. Prevent re‑infestation

   • Advise the child to avoid head‑to‑head contact and sharing of hats, brushes, or hair accessories.
   • Encourage regular checks by parents or caregivers, especially after school or group activities.
   • Educate peers and staff at schools about early detection and appropriate response to reduce spread.

4. Follow‑up

   • Re‑examine the child’s hair 7–10 days after initial treatment; repeat the chosen method if live lice are still observed.
   • Continue weekly inspections for an additional three weeks to ensure complete eradication.

By adhering to these steps—accurate identification, targeted treatment, thorough environmental cleaning, ongoing monitoring, and preventive education—the infestation can be eliminated efficiently and recurrence minimized.