Crabs (Pubic Lice)

1. Remove Pubic Lice and Eggs

• Use an over-the-counter lotion or anti-lice shampoo. Follow instructions on the label.
• The shampoo will kill the lice, but eggs - nits - may remain on hair shafts. After treatment, remove nits with fingernails, tweezers, or a fine-toothed comb. A mirror, magnifying glass, and a bright light may help.

2. Stop the Spread

• Check other family members for crabs. Anyone who sleeps in the same bed as the person should be treated, even if no pubic lice are found.
• Wash clothes, bedding, or towels used by the person in the two days before treatment. Use hot water.
• Dry-clean or store Items that can't be washed in a plastic bag for 2 weeks.

3. Follow Up

• Treatment may need to be repeated 9 to 10 days later.
• Avoid sexual contact until the person and sexual partners have been treated and re-evaluated.

4. See a Health Care Provider

• To be checked for other sexually transmitted diseases
• If a second round of over-the-counter treatment isn't effective
• If the person develops an infection from scratching the affected area
• If fingers or combs aren't enough to remove lice or nits in eyebrows and eyelashes. A health care provider can prescribe ophthalmic grade petroleum jelly.

SOURCES:

CDC: "Pubic 'Crab' Lice, Fact Sheet" and "Crab Lice, Treatment."