What should you do if there are lice in the house? - briefly
First, treat every person showing signs of infestation with an approved lice‑killing shampoo or lotion and follow the recommended repeat‑treatment schedule. Next, launder bedding, clothing, and washable fabrics in hot water, vacuum all carpets and upholstery thoroughly, and seal non‑washable items in airtight bags for at least two weeks.
What should you do if there are lice in the house? - in detail
Detect the problem early. Examine the scalp of every household member, focusing on the hairline, behind the ears, and the neck. Look for live insects, nits attached within ¼ inch of the scalp, or small brown specks that cannot be brushed away.
Immediate actions
- Isolate affected individuals to prevent further spread; keep them separate during treatment.
- Apply a pediculicide approved for the age group, following the label’s dosage and timing precisely.
- Comb wet hair with a fine-toothed nit comb after each application, removing all visible lice and eggs.
- Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nymphs.
Environmental sanitation
- Wash all clothing, towels, and bedding used within the previous 48 hours in water ≥ 130 °F (54 °C) for at least 30 minutes; dry on high heat.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, depriving lice of a viable host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Soak hairbrushes, combs, and hair accessories in hot water (≥ 130 °F) for 10 minutes, then dry.
Home layout
- Remove clutter where lice could hide, such as piles of clothing or blankets.
- Replace or launder curtains and drapes that have been in close contact with the scalp.
- Clean surfaces with a disinfectant that does not damage the material, focusing on headrests, pillowcases, and mattress seams.
Follow‑up monitoring
- Inspect all family members every 2–3 days for at least three weeks. Continue nit‑combing sessions until no nits are visible for two consecutive checks.
- Document any reappearance and repeat the treatment cycle if necessary.
Preventive measures
- Encourage regular head checks, especially after sleepovers or school activities.
- Limit sharing of hats, hair accessories, and personal grooming tools.
- Educate children about the importance of not transferring hair items between peers.
By executing these steps systematically, a household can eradicate an active lice infestation and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.