What should be done to eliminate lice? - briefly
Apply an approved pediculicide treatment and follow with meticulous nit‑combing to remove surviving insects and eggs. Wash all clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water and dry on high heat to prevent re‑infestation.
What should be done to eliminate lice? - in detail
Lice infestations demand a coordinated response that combines direct treatment, environmental control, and ongoing monitoring.
Accurate identification precedes any intervention. Examine the scalp and hair under bright light, using a fine-tooth comb to separate strands. Live insects, nymphs, or viable eggs confirm the presence of an active infestation.
Effective treatment options fall into two categories. Chemical agents contain neurotoxic compounds that immobilize insects; non‑chemical methods rely on physical removal or suffocation.
- Apply a licensed pediculicide according to the product label, ensuring coverage of the entire scalp and hair length. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to target newly hatched nymphs.
- Use a fine‑tooth nit comb on wet, conditioned hair for 10 minutes per session, repeating every 2–3 days for two weeks.
- Consider dimethicone‑based lotions that coat lice, impairing respiration without neurotoxic effects.
- For resistance‑prone cases, rotate between approved chemical classes under professional guidance.
Environmental measures reduce re‑infestation risk. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats to remove stray nymphs and eggs.
Monitoring continues after treatment. Re‑examine the scalp at 14‑day intervals; any residual nits warrant additional combing sessions. Educate all close contacts about detection and preventive practices to halt transmission within the group.