The Prevalence of Head Lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) and its Associated Risk Factors in Bonab County During 2013-2014

Background and objectives : Pediculosis (head lice), is one of the parasitic diseases that has spread worldwide. Head lice are common in communities such as schools, garrisons, and campuses and dormitories but in schools, especially in primary schools are considerably high. This infection causes health and psychological problems and social impacts that can lead to educational fall. Thus, this study was conducted to determine the prevalence of head lice and its influencing factors in the feminine primary schools of Bonab county of East Azerbaijan province during 2014-2015. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 3757 primary schools students by a multi-stage random sampling. The data were collected from the questionnaire and physical examination of hair. Statistical Analysis was done by the Chi-square test. Results: 106 of 3757 students were infected by pediculosis. This study indicated that 2/82 % of students in primary schools have been infected with head lice. Prevalence of pediculosis showed a significant correlation between variables factors such as the bathroom, use of personal belongings, parent education, personal hygiene and father’s occupation (P Conclusion : This study indicated that the awareness of parents and personal hygiene of students reduce the risk of head lice infection in Bonab primary schools.