What should be done if you have lice? - briefly
Apply a medicated lice shampoo or lotion and comb out all nits with a fine-tooth nit comb, then wash clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water. Repeat the treatment after seven days to ensure any newly hatched lice are eliminated.
What should be done if you have lice? - in detail
If live insects are found in the hair, act promptly to eliminate the infestation and prevent spread.
First, confirm the presence of nits (eggs) attached to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp. Use a fine-toothed comb on wet, conditioned hair under bright light. Visible insects confirm the need for treatment.
Immediate steps
- Apply an approved pediculicide according to the product label:
- Permethrin 1 % lotion, applied to dry hair, left for 10 minutes, then rinsed.
- Pyrethrin‑based shampoo, applied to wet hair, left for 5 minutes, then rinsed.
- Prescription ivermectin or malathion for resistant cases, applied as directed by a clinician.
- After the first application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched nymphs that survived the initial dose.
- Comb the hair with a nit comb every 2–3 days for two weeks, removing all visible nits and dead insects.
Environmental control
- Wash bedding, scarves, hats, and clothing used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
Follow‑up
- Inspect the scalp and hair 24 hours after each treatment; retreat only if live insects remain.
- Schedule a check‑up with a health professional if infestation persists after two treatment cycles.
Prevention
- Advise regular head checks in schools or group settings.
- Encourage avoidance of sharing combs, brushes, hats, or headphones.
- Recommend routine use of a fine‑toothed comb for early detection.
Implementing these measures systematically eradicates the parasites, minimizes re‑infestation, and safeguards contacts.