What should you do if you found lice? - briefly
Inspect the scalp, isolate the affected individual, and begin treatment with an approved lice shampoo or medication. Wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water and vacuum the environment thoroughly.
What should you do if you found lice? - in detail
If you discover lice on a person’s scalp, begin with a systematic approach to eliminate the infestation and prevent re‑occurrence.
First, confirm the presence of live insects or viable nits. Use a fine‑tooth comb on wet hair, inspecting the comb teeth after each pass. Nits are oval, tan‑colored and firmly attached to the hair shaft within ¼ inch of the scalp; live lice move quickly when disturbed.
Next, select an appropriate treatment. Over‑the‑counter pediculicides containing 1 % permethrin or 0.5 % pyrethrin are effective when applied according to the package directions. For resistant cases, a prescription lotion with 0.5 % ivermectin or 0.05 % malathion may be required. Apply the product to dry hair, cover the scalp, and leave it for the recommended time before rinsing.
After the chemical step, remove residual eggs mechanically. Comb the hair with a fine‑tooth nit comb while it is still damp, working from the scalp outward. Perform this process in sections, rinsing the comb after each pass. Repeat the combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch any newly hatched lice.
Simultaneously, treat personal items to curb re‑infestation. Wash clothing, bedding, and towels used within the past 48 hours in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and tumble‑dry on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats thoroughly; discard vacuum bags afterwards.
Notify close contacts—family members, classmates, or coworkers—so they can inspect and, if necessary, treat themselves. Encourage them to follow the same combing schedule and hygiene measures.
Finally, monitor the situation. Conduct weekly checks for at least one month. If live insects persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative regimens or possible secondary infection.
By confirming the infestation, applying an approved agent, mechanically removing eggs, sanitizing the environment, informing contacts, and maintaining vigilant follow‑up, the problem can be resolved efficiently.