Health Topics A-Z

How Can I Prevent Lice?

Preventing reinfestation is as important as initial treatment.  This is especially true for head lice, which spread quickly from head to head.  If you discover lice on your child, notify school or day-care authorities at once, since classmates are likely to be infected.  Talk with your children and their friends to be sure they understand the risks.  You may be reluctant to talk about this subject with strangers, but head lice are a social ailment that can only be dealt with socially.

Call your doctor if you need help getting rid of lice or if scratching has led to infection.

How Can I Prevent Scabies?

The best way to prevent getting scabies is to avoid contact with the mite.  For some people, especially those who work in hospitals, day-care centers, and other crowded conditions, that may be difficult.  If you contract the parasite, take basic steps to avoid reinfection and infecting others:

• Apply a pediculicide from the neck down and leave it on for at least 8 hours; ensure anyone who had physical contact with you also applies it, even if they do not show symptoms.
• Wash all linens, towels, and clothes in hot water; store stuffed animals and other hard-to-wash items in bags for at least a week.
• Wash all tables, chairs, floors, and vacuum all rugs.