What to do if the whole family has lice?

What to do if the whole family has lice? - briefly

Treat every household member at once with a licensed pediculicide (shampoo, lotion, or spray), launder all bedding, clothing, and towels in ≥130 °F water, thoroughly vacuum the living areas, and repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched nits.

What to do if the whole family has lice? - in detail

When every member of a household discovers a lice infestation, immediate, coordinated action prevents rapid reinfestation.

First, isolate the problem. Gather all affected individuals, including infants and toddlers, and separate them from untreated members for the duration of treatment.

Next, select an effective remedy. Options include:

  • Prescription pediculicides (e.g., 1% permethrin lotion, 0.5% malathion shampoo). Obtain a prescription from a healthcare professional and follow the label precisely.
  • Over‑the‑counter treatments containing 1% permethrin or pyrethrin. Apply to dry hair, leave for the recommended time, then rinse thoroughly.
  • Non‑chemical alternatives such as dimethicone‑based lotions, which coat insects and facilitate removal without insecticide resistance concerns.

Apply the chosen product to each person’s hair and scalp according to the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring thorough coverage from the roots to the tips. Repeat the application after 7–10 days to eliminate newly hatched nits.

Simultaneously, eliminate eggs and live insects from the environment:

  1. Wash all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °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.
  2. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats to remove detached nits. Empty the vacuum bag or canister immediately into a sealed bag and discard.
  3. Comb hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb after each treatment session. Work section by section, wiping the comb with a disposable tissue after each pass.
  4. Inspect all family members daily for live lice or viable nits. Remove any discovered with the nit comb and re‑treat if necessary.

Prevent recurrence by instituting the following habits:

  • Keep hair tied back or shortened during outbreaks.
  • Avoid sharing hats, hairbrushes, pillowcases, or personal items.
  • Educate children about the importance of not head‑butting or exchanging hair accessories.

If symptoms persist beyond two treatment cycles, consult a medical professional for alternative therapies or possible resistance testing. Document all actions taken to provide a clear timeline for any future medical evaluation.