What to do when a child has lice? - briefly
Inspect the scalp, comb out nits with a fine‑toothed lice comb, and apply an FDA‑approved treatment as directed, then wash bedding, clothing, and personal items in hot water. Repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eradicate any newly hatched insects.
What to do when a child has lice? - in detail
When a youngster is found to have head lice, begin with a thorough inspection. Use a fine-toothed lice comb on damp hair, starting at the scalp and moving toward the ends. Examine each section twice to confirm the presence of live insects or viable eggs.
Proceed to treatment without delay. Options include:
- Over‑the‑counter pediculicides (e.g., permethrin 1% lotion). Apply according to the product label, typically to dry hair, leave for the specified time, then rinse thoroughly.
- Prescription medications (e.g., ivermectin or malathion) for cases where OTC products fail or resistance is suspected. Obtain a prescription and follow medical guidance precisely.
- Non‑chemical methods such as a wet‑comb technique. After washing hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner, then comb with a lice comb every 2‑3 minutes for at least 30 minutes. Repeat the process daily for a week.
After the primary application, repeat the treatment after 7–10 days to eliminate any newly hatched nymphs that survived the first round. Do not exceed the recommended number of applications, as excessive exposure can cause irritation.
Sanitize the environment to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash the child’s bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water (≥ 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal non‑washable items (e.g., stuffed animals) in a sealed bag for two weeks.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and car seats; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Avoid sharing combs, hats, hair accessories, and headphones until the infestation is cleared.
Notify close contacts—classmates, relatives, caregivers—so they can inspect their own children and begin treatment if necessary. Encourage all parties to follow the same protocol to break the infestation cycle.
Monitor the child’s scalp for at least three weeks. If live lice persist after two treatment cycles, consult a healthcare professional for alternative therapies or a potential underlying condition that may affect treatment efficacy.