A Study of Pediculosis Capitis Infestation (Head Lice) among School Girl's Students in Al-Fuhud District of Thi-Qar Province in Iraq

Abstract

^{Head lice (Pediculus hum anus capitis) is one of the most common parasitic infections in the world, causing health problems among schoolchildren and a high level of anxiety among school-age parents, with a peak infestation between the ages of 6-12 years. The current study included conducting a visual examination for the detection of head lice on 709 female students from two primary schools in different areas at the economic and social level in Al-Fuhud district / Thi-Qar province. The current study showed a total infection number of 48 in all of the two schools. The results showed differences in head lice infestation according to factors such as age and social and family variables for the same school, with similar results when comparing both schools. The number of infections in Al-Mukhtar Al-Thaqafi School was 25 and the number of infections in Imam Al-Muttaqin School was 23. Improving living standards, awareness and education, and the use of appropriate treatment methods can significantly reduce lice infestation.}