Education of all levels of society on the biology and control of head and body lice is essential for controlling frequent reoccurring infestations. Downloadable computer presentation on head lice Adequate sanitation, including frequent changes of clothing, and laundering the clothing and bedding in hot water, or dry cleaning, ordinarily is enough to prevent permanent infestations of body lice, since they remain on the clothing and are killed by the cleaning process. However, head lice and crab lice cannot be controlled in this way. Once a few lice are picked up they remain in the hair and are not killed by ordinary shampoos or bathing. Insecticides are therefore necessary to control these species, and to control body lice also when war, catastrophe, economic conditions, or traditional customs prevent adequate laundering.
Chemicals are available as prescription or non-prescription drugs to control lice.
These drugs are available as creams, lotions, or shampoos. Shampoos are preferred for control of head lice. The application of these insecticidal drugs will kill nymphs, adults, and some eggs. Eggs killed by treatment as well as unaffected eggs may remain attached to hair shafts and should be removed as soon as possible. Combs and other tools used to remove lice should be soaked in a lice killing solution such as rubbing alcohol after use.