Body Lice

Diagnosis of Body Lice

Body lice infestation is usually diagnosed through a visual examination:

• Examine the body and clothing: Look for live lice or their eggs (nits).

• Confirmation: The presence of moving lice or eggs confirms an active infestation.

Treatment for Body Lice

Treatment focuses on killing lice and preventing reinfestation:

• Washing and drying:

  • Thoroughly wash yourself and all contaminated clothing, bedding, and towels with soap and hot water.

  • Dry these items using a hot machine dryer cycle.

• Alternative cleaning methods:

  • Dry cleaning or ironing clothing that cannot be washed also kills lice.

• Over-the-counter treatments:

  • Lotions or shampoos containing 1% permethrin (Nix) or pyrethrin can be used if washing and drying alone aren’t enough.

• Prescription treatments:

  • If over-the-counter options fail, a doctor may prescribe stronger lice-killing lotions.

Important Note: Lice treatments can be toxic if misused. Follow product directions carefully.