Pediculosis capitis among urban school children in Ilorin, Nigeria

A survey of 6882 primary school children living in Ilorin, Nigeria revealed that 3.7% of the children were infested with Pediculus humanus capitis. Infestation rate among the children in the Islamic community was 4.1%, whereas in the Christian area, the infestation rate was 3%. Girls had a higher infestation rate (5.6%) than boys (2.1%). The highest infestation rate (28.4%) was observed among girls of low socioeconomic class, followed by their male counterparts (11.2%). Factors associated with the onset of pediculosis included overcrowding, long hair, family size, age, living in a sordid environment, and personal hygiene. Strategies for the effective control of pediculosis are discussed.