Epidemiologic characteristics of head lice infestation among primary schoolgirls of Qeshm Island in southern Iran

Abstract

Background & Aims: Human lice infestation is considered primordial in origin, and its control dates back several centuries. However, its social stigma and ostracism remain major public health issues, particularly among school children. The main aim of this survey was to determine the relative frequency of head lice and its effective qualitative parameters among primary schoolgirls on Qeshm Island, south of Iran. Materials & Methods: This descriptive analytic study was performed on Qeshm Island. From 38 private and municipal primary schools, six schools, each including at least 60 female students, were randomly selected; a sample size of about 270 was computed. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22. Results: In this survey, 283 female primary school students with an average age of 9 ± 2.16 years were investigated, of whom 119 (42%) were infested with head lice. Infestation among 6 to 9- year-old students was significantly lower than in the higher age group (p < 0.001). There was also a significant association between the students’ bathing frequency and lack of head lice infestation (p < 0.05). A significant relationship was evident between the mothers’ education level and head lice infestation in students (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Low maternal literacy, inadequate bathing frequency, and 11-year-old girls were at risk of head lice infestation. To reduce this problem, there is an essential need for the implementation of health measures such as employing school nurses, promoting public access to health services, educating tutors, students, and their parents, conducting clinical exams, and periodic screening.

Keywords

• ectoparasite
• iran
• nit
• pediculus humanus capitis
• student