The prevalence of head lice [pediculus humanus capitis] among primary school pupils in Baghdad city

Of 1000 pupils examined by visual inspection for head lice in four large primary schools of contrasting socioeconomic environment in Baghdad, 12,2% were found to be infested, with infestation rates being higher in the schools of lower socioeconomic status. Over all, girls appeared to have a significant higher infestation rates than boys [54.8% vs 3l.8%], Younger pupils [6-8yr] had significantly lower infestation rate [33.8%] than older ones [49%]. Communal use of toilet facilities has been found to be in the epidemiology of the head lice. The human head louse, Pediculus hiumanus capitis, persists as a widespread and an important ectoparasite of man it affects all races, and social classes of the mane apart from transmitting diseases. Lice often cause considerable inconvenience to their hosts. Physical irritation due to their bites may distract attention. Children have a long time been known to act as reservoirs of infestation as shown by the fact that almost all the information available on this parasite has come from school surveys. This survey seeks to estimate the prevalence of infestation in pupils. of four large primary schools of contrasting social status in Baghdad city with the following aims: [1] To determine the infestation levels in these schools. [2] To determine how far the prevalence can be correlated with Socioeconomic background, sex and age.