What should you do if a girl has lice? - briefly
Inspect the scalp, apply an FDA‑approved pediculicide (such as 1% permethrin) following the label instructions, and comb out all nits with a fine‑tooth lice comb. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water, avoid head‑to‑head contact, and inform the school or childcare center so they can check other children.
What should you do if a girl has lice? - in detail
If a young female discovers head‑lice, immediate, systematic action prevents spread and alleviates discomfort.
First, confirm the infestation. Use a fine‑tooth comb under bright light to locate live insects or viable nits within ¼‑inch of the scalp.
Second, isolate personal items. Place clothing, hats, scarves, pillowcases, and bedding in sealed plastic bags for 48 hours, then launder at ≥60 °C or dry‑clean.
Third, apply an approved pediculicide. Follow product instructions precisely: measure the correct dose, apply to dry hair, leave for the specified duration, then rinse thoroughly. Avoid overlapping treatments; a second application is typically required 7–10 days later to eliminate newly hatched lice.
Fourth, perform manual removal. After treatment, comb the hair with a nit‑comb every 2–3 days for two weeks. Work in sections, pulling the comb from scalp to tip to extract lice and nits.
Fifth, disinfect personal tools. Soak combs, brushes, hair accessories, and hair‑care products in hot water (≥50 °C) for 10 minutes or immerse in a solution of 70 % isopropyl alcohol for 5 minutes.
Sixth, educate close contacts. Inspect siblings, classmates, and caregivers; treat any additional cases promptly. Advise all parties to avoid sharing hats, hair ties, or combs until the infestation resolves.
Seventh, monitor for recurrence. Conduct weekly checks for at least one month. If lice persist despite correct treatment, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies.
By following these steps—verification, isolation, chemical treatment, mechanical removal, tool sanitation, contact notification, and ongoing surveillance—the problem is contained and eliminated efficiently.