Prevalence and Epidemiology of Scabies Among School Children in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.4314/njpar.v46i2.15Keywords:
Awareness, Risk factors, School-age children, ScabiesAbstract
Scabies, a common parasitic skin disease in the tropics and other low-income settings, induces incessant scratching provoked by intense pruritus, with diminished school performance and quality of life in affected individuals. This study explored the epidemiology and risk factors of scabies and the relevant associations among school-age children in Calabar, Southeastern Nigeria. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 321 school-age children in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling by balloting was used to select the schools, while systematic random sampling was used to recruit study participants. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics as well as information on personal and
environmental hygiene. Scabies prevalence was calculated using binomial probability confidence intervals for proportions, and the risk factors were analysed using bivariate and multivariate regression analyses. The prevalence of scabies was 21% (95% CI: 16%–25%). In bivariate analysis, risk factors for scabies prevalence included male sex, household cat ownership, and bed-sharing among siblings. There was a significant association between maternal education and scabies prevalence. These findings highlight the pressing need for evidencebased targeted public health interventions by regional and national authorities, as well as relevant stakeholders within the country.
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