Pediculosis Humanus Capitis Among Primary School Children in lie-ife,Nigeria

Abstract

THIS STUDY was undertaken to determine the prevalence of pediculosis and to identify factors involved in its spread among primary school children in Nigeria. The result shows a high prevalence (12.7%) of pediculosis among the primary school population. The incidence of parasitosis was signifi cantly higher among older children, children of artisans and lower among children of professional workers. 14.2% of the infested children suffered from impetigo, and compared with 1.8% of the non-infested, the elationship was highly significant. Overcrowding at home and in the school and poor standard of hygiene of the children were basically responsible for the high infestation.

"As with animal population, a high incidence of lousiness suggests that something is amiss with the health of the community" J. W. Maunder, 1982.

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