| publication name | The prevalence of infection with head lice pediculus humanus capitis among elementary girl students in Albaha region- Kingdom of Saudi Arabia |
|---|---|
| Authors | Fatehia Nasser Gharsan, Naglaa Fekry Abdel-Hamed, Somia Abd Alla Mohammed Elhassan, Nihad Gubara Abdel Rahman Gubara |
| year | 2016 |
| keywords | Medical entomology, Pediculus humanus capitis, Head lice, Prevalence, Risk factors |
| journal | International Journal of Research in Dermatology |
| volume | 2 |
| issue | 1 |
| pages | 12-17 |
| publisher | Not Available |
| Local/International | International |
| Paper Link | Not Available |
| Full paper | download |
| Supplementary materials | Not Available |
Abstract
Background: Head lice infestation with Pediculus humanus capitis is a widespread health concern among school children. The prevalence of lice infestation and the associated risk factors were assessed among primary school girls in Albaha region. Methods: A total of 672 girls in Al Makhwa area were examined and interviewed. The prevalence of pediculosis was 45.45%. Results: The results indicated there was a significant relation between lice infestation and several risk factors: crowdness in classrooms (89.52% in heavily crowded classes); sharing bedrooms (P≤0.001); hair washing frequency and the person washing it (P≤0.001); sharing combs and towels (69.53 and 71.4% respectively); using a hair-dryer (P≤0.001). Girls' school class level, hair characters, family income, number of family members, mother's education and occupation, mode of transport to school and presence of a house servant were found to have no significant impact on head lice infestation. Conclusions: Family education is needed to implement proper personal hygiene practices and cease sharing personal items. Periodic screening of students at school and home is recommended for early detection and treatment.