The first step is to identify the people who may be affected.
Handling clothes and bed linen:
(1) Wash in soap and water.
(2) Heat treat (60°C for 40 minutes, 70°C for 30 minutes, ironing). Freezing may also be effective.
(3) Treat with an insecticide powder.
Treating the affected person:
(1) Bathe regularly with soap and water.
(2) In heavy infestations or during disasters consider shaving body hair.
(3) Apply shampoo or lotion containing an insecticide.
(4) Change bedding and clothing regularly.
(5) Maintain surveillance.
The lice should be tested for sensitivity to the insecticide if resistance is a problem in the community.
Insecticides:
(1) pyrethrin (natural) or pyrethroids (synthetic) - permethrin, others
(2) malathion (organophosphate)
(3) ivermectin (with retreatment in 1-2 weeks to kill any hatchlings)
Potentially toxic insecticides:
(1) lindane
(2) DDT
(3) carbaryl
