What should you do if a child has lice on their hair? - briefly
Apply an FDA‑approved lice treatment and comb out all nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb. Wash the child’s clothing, bedding, and personal items in hot water, and notify the school or daycare promptly.
What should you do if a child has lice on their hair? - in detail
If a child is discovered to have head lice, immediate and systematic action reduces spread and eliminates the infestation.
First, isolate the affected child from close contact with peers for at least 24 hours while treatment is underway. Notify the school or childcare provider so they can inform other families and take preventive measures.
Next, select an appropriate pediculicide. Over‑the‑counter products containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied according to the label. For resistant cases, a prescription‑only lotion with 0.5 % malathion may be required. Follow these steps precisely:
- Read the instructions. Verify dosage, application time, and any contraindications (e.g., age limits, skin conditions).
- Apply the product. Part the hair into sections and coat the scalp and hair thoroughly. Use a fine‑toothed comb to distribute the solution evenly.
- Leave on for the recommended duration. Do not rinse early; timing is critical for killing both lice and newly hatched nymphs.
- Rinse with warm water. Remove excess product, then dry the hair gently.
After treatment, perform a meticulous combing session with a lice‑comb:
- Use a fine‑toothed metal comb on damp, conditioned hair.
- Start at the scalp, pulling the comb through to the ends.
- Clean the comb after each pass with a tissue or rinse in hot water.
- Repeat every 2–3 days for two weeks to capture any surviving eggs (nits) that may hatch.
Simultaneously, decontaminate personal items and the environment:
- Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed toys) in a plastic bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, or headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Monitor the child’s scalp daily for live lice or viable nits. If live insects are observed after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies, such as ivermectin or a different prescription lotion.
Finally, educate the family on prevention:
- Encourage regular head checks, especially after playdates or school attendance.
- Advise against head‑to‑head contact and sharing of personal hair accessories.
- Maintain short hair lengths where feasible, as longer hair can harbor more nits.
By adhering to these procedures, the infestation can be eradicated efficiently while minimizing the risk of recurrence.