Dealing with Head Lice

When dealing with head lice, it's important to follow these steps:

• Search for head lice when the hair is wet using a fine-toothed comb.
• Wet comb every two to three days over two weeks, covering the entire scalp.
• If lice are found, treat with an over-the-counter anti-lice agent and repeat in seven to ten days.

How to Use Anti-Lice Agents

Start with over-the-counter treatments. If lice persist after two applications, consult a doctor for prescription options. Follow the product instructions.

Non-prescription anti-lice agents include Nix Lotion and Rid shampoos.

Remember to check and treat household members only if lice or nits are seen. Wash all linens and clothing in hot water.

Disinfect combs and brushes in hot water or rubbing alcohol.

Vacuum and dispose of the bag immediately. Avoid herbal or oil treatments.

Do not use gasoline or similar products. Shaving the head is not necessary.

If lice are found in a school-aged child, notify the school to prevent further spread.

Treatment may fail due to re-exposure or non-compliance. Consider alternative treatments if reinfestation occurs within a month.

Body Lice

• Thoroughly wash the body.
• Wash and dry all bed linens and clothes in hot cycles.
• Anti-lice agents are usually not needed if clothing is thrown away and bed linens are washed.
• Check household members and treat if necessary. Vacuum and discard the bag immediately.
• Avoid chemical insecticide sprays in the home.
• Use over-the-counter antihistamines for itching.

Pubic Lice

• Treat with anti-lice agents and repeat in seven to ten days.
• Remove nits with a fine-toothed comb.
• Check close contacts and treat if necessary. Wash and dry clothes and linens in hot cycles.
• Examine eyelashes and eyebrows; if lice or nits are seen, apply petroleum jelly twice daily for eight days.
• Use over-the-counter antihistamines for itching.

Prevention

Families should routinely check for lice to prevent recurrence.

Practicing safe sexual practices can reduce the risk of transmitting pubic lice and other diseases.

Regularly wash clothes, bed linens, combs, and brushes to prevent reinfestation.

Preventive treatments with anti-lice agents are not recommended and can lead to illness and persistent itching.

Outlook

With proper home care or prescription medication, over 90% of lice infestations can be cured.

• Treatments are more effective in killing lice than nits, so combing to remove nits is crucial.
• Children can return to their regular activities and school after the first treatment, even if nits are still in the hair. Re-treat in seven to ten days.