Prevalence and risk factors of Pediculus capitis among primary schools children in Al-Mukalla city, Hadhramout governorate, Yemen

A school-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Head lice infestations (Pediculus humanus capitis) are the most common parasitic condition
among children in the world, especially in poor communities. A descriptive cross-sectional study was
conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors of head lice infestation among children in AlMukalla city schools, Hadhramout governorate, Yemen. Data were collected from 467 students from six
different primary schools in Al-Mukalla city. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect demographic
data, social-economic factors, practice hygiene and treatment history. The overall prevalence of
pediculosis capitis was (58.5%). a significantly higher prevalence was showed among: female gender;
long and medium hair; age group of 11-14 years; students in the 4th and 5th Class levels, students in
classes with more than 40 students capacity; students in government schools; students who sharing items;
those coming from previously infested family members (P<0.001). This study shows a high prevalence
of Head lice infestations among children in a primary school in Al-Mukalla city. There is a significant
association between Head lice infestations with socio-economic; personal hygiene factors and history of
Head lice infestations in one family member that indicated the difficulties of eradication of head lice,
especially from girls. Health education and good personal hygiene programmed are needed to increase
awareness in our community.