Head lice infestations [Anoplura: pediculidae] in Saudi and non-Saudi school-aged children

ABSTRACT

The prevalence and human risk factors associated with head lice infestation was studied. A total of 860 children, 474 [55.1%] boys and 386 [44.9%] girls, with ages ranged from 6-13 years were critically examined. They were randomly selected from two schoolchildren [one for boys and one for girls] in Jazan Province. The children or their parents were subjected to questionnaire and physical examination by visual inspections of scalp and hair for the presence of adult lice, nymphs, and/or eggs [nits]. A total of 114 children [13.3%] were infested with head lice, 73 [18.9%] girls and 41 [8.6%] boys. The highest infestation rate was recorded in rural area [20.5%]. Pediculosis had a negative association with father's education level and frequency of hair washing [p>0.01]. The results indicated that rural residence, sex, long hair, age-group 6-<8 years old, positive history of previous infestation, sharing of beds and combs, uneducated mother and family overcrowding might be the risk factors for the head lice infestation