What should be done if lice eggs are found? - briefly
Remove the eggs with a fine‑tooth comb after applying an appropriate pediculicide, then wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water. Repeat the process after seven days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
What should be done if lice eggs are found? - in detail
When nits are detected on a person’s hair, immediate action is required to prevent further infestation and to eliminate existing eggs. The following protocol provides a comprehensive approach.
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Isolate the affected individual to limit transmission to others. Wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks.
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Apply an approved pediculicide lotion or shampoo according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the product is suitable for nit removal, not only for live lice. Leave the treatment on the scalp for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
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Use a fine‑toothed nit comb on wet, conditioned hair. Start at the scalp and work outward, dividing the hair into sections. Remove each nit and any attached egg before moving to the next section. Repeat the combing process at least once daily for ten days, as newly hatched lice may emerge from surviving eggs.
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After the initial chemical treatment, schedule a second application 7–10 days later. This timing targets any lice that hatched after the first treatment and were not killed by the initial dose.
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Inspect the scalp and hair daily for remaining nits. Continue combing until no live lice or viable eggs are observed for three consecutive examinations.
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Educate all close contacts about the signs of infestation and recommend preventive measures, such as avoiding head-to-head contact and not sharing combs, hats, or headphones.
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Document the treatment dates, products used, and any adverse reactions. If the infestation persists despite repeated interventions, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies or prescription‑strength options.
Following this systematic regimen eliminates eggs, prevents re‑infestation, and minimizes the risk of spread within the community.