Which action helps prevent transmission of pediculosis capitis in a household?

• A. Wash linens and bedding in hot water and dry on hot
• B. Do not treat siblings
• C. Leave combs and hair accessories as they are
• D. Vacuum is not needed

Answer: (A)

Preventing transmission of pediculosis capitis hinges on removing the environmental sources that can carry lice. Lice and their eggs can survive on linens, bedding, combs, and hair accessories that have touched the head. Washing linens and bedding in hot water and drying on hot is the most effective measure because the heat kills both live lice and the eggs attached to fabric, breaking the chain of transmission within the household. Other options don’t address the contaminated items: not treating siblings allows ongoing spread, leaving combs and hair accessories unchanged keeps lice and nits in circulation, and vacuuming alone doesn’t eliminate lice or nits on the scalp or in fabrics.