Super lice, which are aptly named because they are resistant to over-the-counter treatment, have affected 25 U.S. states, including Illinois and Missouri.
Back in 2000, pyrethroids worked 100 percent of the time, but dropped to just 25 percent in 2013. Scientists found that the current super lice are resistant to chemicals found in majority of OTC treatments.
The Lice Clinics of America rolled out a new treatment called AirAllé that can effectively treat super lice cases.
"We use heated air and we dehydrate the lice and the eggs in a single treatment. It takes about an hour, and we guarantee it," said Lice Clinics of America CEO Claire Roberts.
The FDA-approved AirAllé has a tag price of $170 and is covered by most insurance. While combing, nit-picking and prescription drugs can also treat super lice, using these methods require multiple treatments that could take time.
The Vancouver Clinic's Dr. Kevin Hatcher-Ross said there are also other treatments that can kill super lice. These prescription drugs come in the form of creams and pills.
"There's a pill that you can take twice called ivermectin that often works quite well," said Hatcher-Ross, the Clinic's Head of Pediatrics.
Prevention is always the best solution. Roberts and other experts agree that parents should teach their children a few preventive measures.
Avoiding direct contact with hair that could be riddled with lice is a good protective strategy. Kids should also avoid sharing hats or combs with other children.
If kids contact lice, simply vacuum areas at home where hair could have fallen. Hot drying stuffed toys and clothing for up to 30 minutes can also kill the lice.
Using hot water to wash beddings and hot drying linens can help. Lice die after 24 hours of no blood supply. Below are the states where cases of super lice are found.
1. Alabama
2. Arizona
3. Arkansas
4. California
5. Connecticut
6. Florida
7. Georgia
8. Illinois
9. Indiana
10. Kansas
11. Kentucky
12. Maine
13. Maryland
14. Massachusetts
15. Minnesota
16. Missouri
17. North Carolina
18. Ohio
19. Rhode Island
20. South Carolina
21. Tennessee
22. Texas
23. Virginia
24. Washington
25. Wisconsin
Photo: Gilles San Martin | Flickr
