What to do to prevent lice infestation? - briefly
Inspect hair and scalp frequently, keep hair tied back, and do not share combs, hats, pillows, or towels. If lice are detected, apply an approved treatment immediately and launder all contaminated items in hot water.
What to do to prevent lice infestation? - in detail
Regular hair washing with plain shampoo reduces the chance of lice colonization, but it is not sufficient on its own. Keep hair tied back in braids, ponytails, or buns, especially for children in group settings, because short, unbound hair is less accessible to parasites. Avoid sharing personal items such as combs, brushes, hats, scarves, headphones, and hair accessories; store each person’s belongings separately.
Maintain a clean environment. Wash bedding, pillowcases, and clothing in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) weekly, then tumble‑dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and car seats regularly; discard vacuum bags or clean the canister after each use. Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals) in a sealed plastic bag for two weeks, a period that exceeds the lice life cycle.
Implement routine inspections. Examine scalp and hair at the nape of the neck and behind the ears at least twice a week, using a fine‑toothed comb on damp hair. If nits are found, remove them manually with a metal nit comb, moving from the scalp outward. Repeat combing every 2–3 days for two weeks to catch any newly hatched insects.
Educate all participants. Inform children, caregivers, and staff about transmission pathways and the importance of early detection. Encourage immediate reporting of suspected cases so that prompt treatment can begin, limiting spread to classmates and family members.
When an infestation is confirmed, apply a pediculicide approved by health authorities according to the product’s instructions. Follow up with a second application after seven days to eradicate any survivors. Combine chemical treatment with thorough combing to maximize effectiveness.
By integrating personal grooming habits, environmental sanitation, systematic screening, and prompt therapeutic response, the likelihood of an outbreak can be markedly reduced. Continuous vigilance and consistent application of these measures sustain a lice‑free environment.