Publication Type: | Journal Article |
Year of Publication: | 2021 |
Authors: | M. Sepehri, Jafari Z. |
Journal: | Zahedan Journal of Research in Medical Sciences |
Volume: | 24 |
Issue: | 1 (e104042) |
Pagination: | 5 pp |
Date Published: | Dec-16-2021 |
ISSN: | 2383-2894 |
Keywords: | head lice, Prevalence, primary school |
Abstract: | Background: Pediculosis capitis or head lice infestation is one of the most critical public health problems, primarily involving primary school children. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Pediculus capitis contamination among primary school students in the villages of Varzaqan city, East Azerbaijan province, Iran, in 2020. Methods: Overall, 400 primary school students aged 7 - 12 were selected through convenience sampling. First, a demographic checklist was filled out for each participant, and then hair examination was carried out individually and privately to detect head lice or eggs/nits. The data analysis was performed using descriptive (frequency and percentage) and analytical methods, including chi-square and t-tests (SPSS, version 16). A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Of 400 students, 41 (10.3%) were infested with P. capitis. The prevalence rate significantly differed between boys (6.2%) and girls (14.8%). There was a significant association between pediculosis and mother’s education, father’s job, family income, history of infestation, number of combs per day, and frequency of hair washing per week. Conclusions: According to the prevalence of head lice in primary school children, we need to increase the awareness and train children, parents, and teachers through further cross-sectoral cooperation between education and health centers. Also, the presence of a hygiene teacher at school to improve the health status of students can significantly reduce the prevalence of pediculosis. |
URL: | https://brieflands.com/articles/zjrms-104042.html |
DOI: | 10.5812/zjrms.104042 |
Short Title: | Zahedan J Res Med Sci. |
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Head Lice (Pediculosis capitis) Among Primary School Students in Varzaqan Villages, Northwest of Iran
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