Prevalence of Pediculosis capitis in Yazd Primary Schools in 2013

Head lice infestation is one of the most frequent parasitic contamination worldwide including Iran and many other countries. This study was conducted in order to assess the prevalence of pediculosis capitis and some of the factors affecting its infestation among pupils and children in primary schools and preschools in Yazd city.
The present study was a descriptive-analytical (cross-sectional) study. This study was carried out on 650 children who were selected from primary schools and preschools of Yazd city by two-stage cluster sampling method. Data were collected by hair examination and filling out a questionnaire and analyzed by Chi-square, Odds Ratio, ¡ Fisher's exact test, and Mann Whitney using SPSS software. p Of the 650 children examined, 17 (2.6%) were infected with lice of which 14 being girl (4.5%) and 3 boys (%0.9). This study showed that the infestation is more prevalent in girls (4.6%) than the boys with the highest rate seen among 5-8 year old children. The results showed significant variations in head lice infestation, and factors such as sex, family size, level of parents education and their occupation (p The prevalence of pediculosis in Yazd city was lower than the average rates observed in Iran and as well as the other provinces. Improvements in socioeconomic and cultural conditions and most importantly family health care knowledge as well as the environmental health in schools and preschools are the most effective factors affecting the rate of infestation.