What should be done if you have gotten lice? - briefly
Apply a licensed lice treatment, thoroughly comb out nits, and wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water; then repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
What should be done if you have gotten lice? - in detail
If head lice are detected, begin treatment immediately. Confirm the presence by using a fine-toothed comb on wet hair; move the comb from scalp to tip, wiping each pass on a white surface to spot live insects or nits.
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Select an appropriate pediculicide – choose a product containing 1% permethrin, 0.5% malathion, or a dimethicone‑based formula. Follow the label precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly.
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Repeat the application – a second dose is required 7–10 days after the first to eliminate newly hatched nits that survived the initial treatment.
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Combine with manual removal – after each application, comb the hair with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Perform this step every 2–3 days for two weeks, removing all visible nits and adult lice.
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Sanitize personal items – place clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours, or wash them in hot water (≥130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat.
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Treat household contacts – examine family members or close contacts; any person with live lice or viable nits should receive the same regimen.
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Vacuum and clean – thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove stray hairs that may contain nits.
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Monitor for reinfestation – continue weekly inspections for at least four weeks. If live lice appear after the second treatment, consult a healthcare professional for alternative prescription options such as ivermectin or oral medications.
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Prevent future outbreaks – discourage sharing of hats, hairbrushes, headphones, and pillows; educate children on avoiding head‑to‑head contact during play.
By adhering to this systematic protocol, the infestation can be eradicated efficiently and the risk of recurrence minimized.