What to do about lice in the house? - briefly
Identify the infestation, apply a suitable pediculicide to affected individuals, and immediately wash bedding, clothing, and upholstery in hot water. Follow with thorough vacuuming, sealing of cleaned items, and regular inspection to prevent re‑infestation.
What to do about lice in the house? - in detail
Dealing with an infestation of head lice inside a residence requires a systematic approach that combines personal treatment, environmental cleaning, and preventive measures.
First, identify all affected individuals. Examine each person’s scalp and hair with a fine-toothed comb, focusing on the nape, behind the ears, and near the crown. Separate the hair into sections, comb from scalp to tip, and wipe the comb on a white tissue after each pass to detect live insects or viable eggs. Repeat the inspection for at least three consecutive days to capture newly hatched lice.
Second, apply an approved pediculicide to the hair of each infested person. Follow the product’s instructions precisely: apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended duration, then rinse thoroughly. For resistant cases, consider a second‑generation treatment such as a dimethicone‑based lotion, which suffocates lice without chemicals. After the initial application, repeat the treatment after seven to ten days to eradicate any surviving nymphs.
Third, remove residual eggs (nits) mechanically. Use a specialized nit comb with teeth spaced 0.2 mm apart. Comb the hair while it is still damp, from scalp to tip, cleaning the comb after each pass. Perform this process daily for two weeks to ensure complete removal.
Fourth, clean the household environment. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels used by the affected individuals in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in plastic bags for two weeks, depriving lice of a host. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and floor mats thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag. No fumigation is required, as lice cannot survive off a human for more than 24 hours.
Fifth, implement preventive actions. Advise regular hair checks, especially after school or group activities. Encourage families to avoid sharing combs, hats, scarves, or hair accessories. Maintain personal items in separate containers when possible. Educate children about the signs of infestation and the importance of reporting any itching promptly.
Finally, monitor the situation. Conduct weekly scalp examinations for all household members for at least one month. If new cases appear despite adherence to the protocol, consult a healthcare professional for alternative treatments or possible resistance testing.
By following these steps—identification, chemical or mechanical treatment, thorough cleaning, and ongoing vigilance—lice can be eliminated from a home efficiently and safely.