Fumigation as a Method of controlling the Body Louse, Pediculus humanus corporis, De Geer

Abstract

The paper describes small and large scale methods of fumigation which have been worked out for six fumigants. The conditions under which complete control of body lice and their eggs may be obtained are set out, and the relative uses of the two methods and the various fumigants are described. Four of the materials tested, methyl formate, ethyl formate, ethylene dichloride and methyl-allyl chloride are comparatively safe and pleasant to handle, but they sometimes demand rather heavy dosages of fumigant or long exposures, especially at temperatures below 20°C. Chloropicrin and trichloracetonitrile on the other hand have strongly irritating properties, but their toxicity to lice is also much greater. The methods have the advantage that some are very safe and all are simple, demanding no elaborate technique or apparatus.