What should be done if one child has lice? - briefly
Treat the infected child promptly with an FDA‑approved pediculicide and comb out nits, then inspect all close contacts and repeat treatment in 7‑10 days if any are found. Launder bedding, hats, and brushes in hot water and vacuum shared areas to eliminate remaining eggs.
What should be done if one child has lice? - in detail
If a child is discovered to have head lice, immediate action is required to stop the infestation and prevent spread.
First, confirm the presence of live lice or viable nits. Use a fine-tooth comb on wet hair, inspecting the scalp and behind the ears. Remove any visible insects and note the severity of the infestation.
Second, begin treatment with an approved pediculicide. Follow the product’s instructions precisely: apply the medication to dry hair, leave it for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. For resistance concerns, consider a prescription‑only option such as ivermectin or malathion, administered under medical supervision.
Third, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched lice that survived the first application. Do not exceed the recommended number of repetitions without professional guidance.
Fourth, clean personal items and the environment. Wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥130 °F) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Fifth, inform the school or daycare. Provide a written notice describing the steps taken and the date of the next treatment. Most institutions require verification of completion before the child returns.
Sixth, educate family members. Examine all household contacts, treating anyone with signs of infestation. Advise against sharing hats, hairbrushes, headphones, or pillows until the problem is resolved.
Seventh, monitor for reinfestation. Conduct weekly comb checks for at least four weeks. If lice reappear, repeat the treatment cycle and reassess the chosen product’s effectiveness.
By adhering to these measures—verification, medication, repeat dosing, environmental sanitation, communication with caregivers, family screening, and ongoing surveillance—the outbreak can be contained and eliminated efficiently.