1. Understanding transmission

Direct head-to-head contact is the most common way lice spread, especially among children during school, sports activities, sleepovers, or camps. Lice can also spread indirectly through shared items like clothing, combs, brushes, and hair accessories. Surfaces like pillows, upholstered furniture, carpets, or seats in public places can harbor lice and nits, making thorough cleaning essential.

2. Survival outside the host

Lice and their eggs can survive outside the human body for a short period. Adult lice can live up to 48 hours, while nymphs (larvae) survive only a few hours without their host. Nits can last up to a week but need the warmth of the scalp to develop. Lice struggle to cling to smooth surfaces but can still transfer via everyday items.

3. Comprehensive cleaning steps

• Laundry tactics
  Wash bedding, towels, and clothes at temperatures above 60°C. Use a tumble dryer on a hot cycle if available. For delicate items, Nitolic® wash is your go-to solution.
• Vacuum everything
  Pay extra attention to spaces where the infested individual spent time. Immediately remove and dispose of the vacuum bag after cleaning.
• Sterilize hair accessories
  Hot water or NITOLIC® wash  should be used to treat all hair accessories to eliminate any residual lice or nits.

Prevention and education
Foster habits that minimize lice spread, such as avoiding head-to-head contact and not sharing personal items. Lice protective sprays like NITOLIC® prevent plus can also be an effective preventative strategy.

4. Nitolic® wash – effective washing at low temperatures

For items that cannot be washed at high temperatures, use Nitolic® wash. This product is part of NITOLIC® comprehensive head lice treatment kit.

5. Routine hair checks

Stay vigilant with bi-weekly scalp inspections for all family members to maintain your lice-free household.
These revised strategies provide a robust approach to ensuring that your home doesn’t just become lice-free, but stays that way.