Occurrence and awareness of head lice among elderly residents in long-term care facilities in Uberlandia, MG, Brazil

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the occurrence of head lice in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Uberlandia, MG, Brazil, analyze associations with sex, ethnicity, age and hair characteristics, and verify awareness among elderly adults. Head inspections were performed and infestation was characterized on individual forms. A questionnaire on the biology, epidemiology and control of head lice was applied. Overall occurrence was 1.4%, being highest in elderly women with medium-length curly hair. Questionnaire responses indicated that the majority had no general knowledge on head lice. More than 40% reported infestation at some point in their lives and most knew how to control it. Overall occurrence was considered low and is related to measures adopted by the LTCFs, which controlled infestation by minimizing the influence of factors normally associated with its occurrence. The study was pioneer in analyzing associations between head lice and the degree of autonomy of elderly adults.