What should be done if lice are not treated? - briefly
Consult a healthcare professional right away for prescription medication and a treatment plan to eliminate the infestation. Then wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done if lice are not treated? - in detail
An untreated head‑lice infestation can spread rapidly, cause persistent itching, and lead to secondary bacterial infections from scratching. Immediate action is required to prevent these outcomes.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits by examining the scalp with a fine‑tooth comb under good lighting. If confirmation is obtained, begin a chemical or mechanical treatment regimen without delay.
Chemical approach
- Apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities (e.g., permethrin 1 % or pyrethrin‑based lotion) according to the product label.
- Leave the preparation on the scalp for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly.
- Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first dose.
Mechanical approach
- Use a fine‑tooth nit comb on wet, conditioned hair.
- Comb from scalp to ends in systematic sections, cleaning the comb after each pass.
- Perform the combing session daily for at least one week, then twice weekly for another week to catch any late hatchlings.
Second, decontaminate 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. Non‑washable items should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks or exposed to sunlight for several hours.
Third, inform close contacts—family members, classmates, or coworkers—so they can inspect their own heads and initiate treatment if needed. Encourage simultaneous treatment to break the transmission cycle.
Finally, schedule a follow‑up examination after the second treatment round. Verify the absence of live lice and nits. If any remain, consider an alternative pediculicide or consult a healthcare professional for prescription‑strength options.
By adhering to these steps, the infestation is eradicated, reinfestation risk is minimized, and complications such as skin infections are avoided.