Pubic lice (crabs)

Chemicals (insecticides) are applied to the affected body parts to kill the lice and eggs. Some of these medicines can be obtained at a pharmacy without a prescription. The nits can be removed using a mixture of vinegar and water (1:2) and a lice comb. After eight to ten days the treatment must be repeated, to kill the newly born lice from any nits left behind. Shaving the affected area helps, but is not necessary.

Towels, bed sheets, underpants and pajamas should be changed daily and washed at a minimum of 60° C. Fabrics that cannot be washed at that temperature should be securely packed in a plastic bag for four weeks to starve the lice to death. Combs and brushes should be placed in 60°C water for 10 minutes, then for one hour in a disinfectant solution.

You should avoid close bodily contact until the treatment is complete. Sexual partners should also be checked for pubic lice, so as to avoid a “ping-pong” effect, where the lice are passed back and forth.