Article: Although lice usually don’t survive past one day off the scalp, you may want to clean household items as a precaution. Wash and clean any items the affected person has used within the past two days.  Wash bedding, stuffed animals, and clothing in hot and soapy water. The water should be at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (or 54.4 degrees Celsius). Dry items at a high heat. Wash hair care items such as combs, brushes, and accessories in hot, soapy water. Soak the items in water that is at least 130 degrees Fahrenheit (or 54.4 degrees Celsius) for 5-10 minutes.  Seal any items that you cannot clean or wash in a plastic bag for two weeks to deprive the lice and nits of air. Vacuum your floors and any upholstered furniture. After any treatment and for a couple of weeks following treatment, inspect your head vigilantly for evidence of any lice or their nits. This can help prevent the spread to other individuals and help ensure that you don’t have any lingering lice or eggs that need treatment.  Nits hatch 7-11 days after being laid, so check your scalp for at least two weeks after treatment. You may want to use a magnifying glass and lamp to inspect hair and other household items. Check your hair daily until the infestation is gone and then every week thereafter to detect any reinfestation. Schools and child care facilities are the most commons sources of lice infestations, though they can occur any place. Contact the place that you believe is the source of the infestation in order to alert them to the possibility that others may also have it. Let the source know that you are treating your own infestation. In general, it’s a good idea to separate personal items as much as possible. This can minimize the risk of lice and nits spreading to others and also prevent reinfestation. Place coats, hats, and scarves on separate hooks as much as possible.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Clean household items. Inspect your head for lice vigilantly. Contact the source of the infestation. Separate personal items.