Lice and Scabies

Lice are tiny, white, wingless insects that may live on the skin, hair, or clothing. They feed by biting the skin and sucking blood. The bites itch and may cause an allergic rash. Head lice live in the hair on the head; body lice live on clothing; and pubic lice (also called crabs) live in the groin, underarms, and eyelashes.

Lice are spread by close physical contact or contact with the clothing, bedding, brushes, or combs of an infected person. Pubic lice can be spread through sexual contact.

Scabies are tiny mites that burrow under the skin and lay eggs. This burrowing causes a rash that itches intensely. Scabies are often found between folds of skin on the fingers and toes, wrists, underarms, and groin, as well as on the nipples. The scabies mites are spread through close contact with an infected per­son, such as sleeping in the same bed. Scabies are usually treated with a medication that is applied over the entire body and left on overnight. Itching may last for several weeks after treatment.

Prevention

Be alert for signs of lice: itching and lice or tiny eggs (nits) attached to the hair shafts of the head. Prompt treatment can help prevent spreading lice to others.

People who have lice or scabies should avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the insects or mites that cause these conditions.

Home Treatment

· There is a very effective, nonmedicated way to treat head lice. Make
a 50/50 solution of mineral oil and vinegar. Massage it into the hair and wrap the hair in plastic. Leave on for 1 hour. Divide the hair into small sections and comb from root
to tip with a lice comb (available in most drug stores), rinsing the comb well after each stroke. Shampoo normally, then rinse the hair with vinegar (apple cider or another variety). Repeat in 10 days to ensure all nits and eggs are dead.

· Kwellada, Nix, and RID are non­prescription medications for lice. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for use exactly. (Note: These medications cannot be used on infants.) For head lice, comb the hair well with a lice comb after treatment to remove all nits.

· On the day you start treatment, wash all dirty clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water to help get rid of lice, nits, and mites. Iron or freeze (for 24 hours) things that cannot be washed.

· Some schools have a “no nits” policy stating that children may not return to school until they are free of lice nits. Children who have been treated for scabies can return to school after treatment is completed.

· Contact your pharmacist or local public health unit for more information about treatment and preventing reinfestation.

When to Call a Health Professional

Call if treatment with nonprescription medication is not successful. Stronger prescription drugs are available.