Head louse infestations in Yemen: prevalence and risk factors determination among primary schoolchildren, Al-Mahweet Governorate, Yemen.

This study assessed the prevalence and human risk factors associated with head lice infestation. A total of 860 children, 474 (55.1%) boys and 386 (44.9%) girls, with ages ranged from 6-14 years with mean of 9.2 +/- 1.7 year were studied. They were selected from four Governmental primary schools of different socioeconomic in urban and rural districts representing Al Mahweet Governorate. The children 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 were the risk factors for the head lice infestation.