Treating
Pediculosis
Fact Sheet
PDF 13 KB
Non-prescription medications are available in pharmacies. Follow the
directions on the medication bottles. DO NOT OVER-TREAT.
A second treatment may be needed in 7 to 10 days to destroy any eggs
that may have hatched after the first treatment.
Nits can be gotten rid of by combing them out of the hair with a
fine-toothed comb. It is also possible to cut out the hair strands
that have an attached nit. This takes time and patience, so it is
often done as a child watches TV.
Remember, dandruff can readily be pulled out of the hair, but nits
are glued to the hair strand and do not come off easily.
Consult a health care provider before treating a child less than one year of
age.
All family members should be checked for nits, as failure to treat
infected family members will cause reinfestation within the household.
Prevent reinfestation by:
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Thoroughly vacuuming the house, especially the infected person's
room, including furniture.
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Soaking combs and brushes for one hour in anti-lice shampoo solution.
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Washing all bedding, blankets, pillow cases, and clothes worn
by an infected person within the past
72 hours in hot water for at least 20 minutes (water at 130°F will
kill lice and nits).
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Sealing items which can't be washed (e.g., hats, coats, and scarves) in
an airtight plastic bags for two weeks.
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Treatment Recommendations
Infestation Recommendations
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Thoroughly vacuum living areas and bedrooms.
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Vacuum or iron furniture.
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Soak combs and brushes.
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Wash all bedding and clothes (seal un-washable
items in plastic for 2 weeks).
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