What should be done with lice? - briefly
Apply an approved «pediculicide» to the scalp and hair, then comb out nits with a fine‑tooth comb. Repeat the treatment after seven days to eradicate any newly hatched lice.
What should be done with lice? - in detail
Lice infestations require a systematic approach that includes identification, treatment, environmental sanitation, and monitoring.
Accurate identification relies on visual inspection of the scalp and hair shafts. Live insects, nits firmly attached to hair strands within 1 cm of the scalp, confirm an active infestation.
Effective treatment options fall into two categories:
- Chemical pediculicides – products containing permethrin, pyrethrin, or dimethicone. Apply according to label instructions, repeat after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
- Physical methods – wet‑combing with a fine‑toothed lice comb, repeated every 2–3 days for two weeks. High‑temperature steam treatments for bedding and clothing provide additional control without chemical exposure.
Environmental measures reduce reinfestation risk:
- Wash all worn clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items in sealed plastic bags for at least two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and vehicle seats to remove stray nits.
Preventive practices limit future outbreaks:
- Advise regular head checks in schools and childcare settings.
- Encourage avoidance of head‑to‑head contact and sharing of personal items such as combs, hats, and headphones.
- Educate caregivers about the life cycle of the parasite: eggs hatch in 7–10 days, mature insects live 30 days, and females lay up to 100 eggs.
Follow‑up inspection 1 week after initial treatment confirms eradication. Persistent nits or live lice necessitate a second treatment cycle and review of environmental steps.
By integrating accurate diagnosis, appropriate therapeutic choice, thorough environmental decontamination, and vigilant monitoring, lice infestations can be eliminated efficiently and sustainably.