Dispelling the common myths about pediculosis

Head Lice

Head lice infestation is associated with limited morbidity but causes a high level of anxiety among caregivers of school-aged children and adolescents. Since the 2015 clinical report on head lice was published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, new medications have been approved, and an algorithm for management of affected patients is included. This revised clinical report clarifies current diagnosis and treatment protocols.

Scabies and Pediculosis in Penitentiary Institutions in Poland-A Study of Ectoparasitoses in Confinement Conditions

BACKGROUND

Scabies (caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis) and pediculosis (caused by Pediculus humanus) are infectious diseases common in educational institutions and long-term care centres. The aim of the study was to assess the scale of the phenomenon in confinement conditions favouring the spread of these parasitoses.

METHODS

Data on the prevalence of scabies (2001-2015) and pediculosis (2008-2015) in Polish prisoners were provided by the Central Board of Prison Service. The information for the period between 2010 and 2015 in the Lublin Province was obtained from the District Inspectorate of the Prison Service in Lublin. Correlations between the prevalence of scabies and pediculosis and the number of prisoners were analysed, as well as correlations between the number of passes granted to prisoners and the prevalence of scabies and pediculosis in incarcerated individuals.

RESULTS

The prevalence of scabies and pediculosis in Polish prisoners has been estimated at 2.3% and 1.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediculosis and scabies are still current issues in Polish prisons. Convicts returning from passes and new prisoners should be carefully examined and monitored for the presence of S. scabiei var. hominis and P. humanus invasion. Education of prisoners could be a promising tool in prevention of scabies and pediculosis in correctional settings.

Head lice

Head lice infestation is associated with limited morbidity but causes a high level of anxiety among parents of school-aged children. Since the 2002 clinical report on head lice was published by the American Academy of Pediatrics, patterns of resistance to products available over-the-counter and by prescription have changed, and additional mechanical means of removing head lice have been explored. This revised clinical report clarifies current diagnosis and treatment protocols and provides guidance for the management of children with head lice in the school setting.

Pediculosis in a school population

This nonexperimental, retrospective study of elementary, middle school, and high school children (a) determined the prevalence of pediculosis, (b) identified populations susceptible to head lice infestation, and (c) examined the role of the school nurse in pediculosis management. The findings showed the highest prevalence of pediculosis was among younger school-age children, and girls were 3 times more likely to be infested than boys. Hispanic children had the highest rate of infestation, followed by Caucasian children. African American children showed a 15% infestation rate, a finding not supported by other studies. The role of the school nurse in pediculosis management was restricted by time and budgetary constraints. Findings of this study support the need for a standardized data collection system for pediculosis in all school districts.

School nurses' perceptions of and experiences with head lice

Researchers examined school nurses' perceptions of head lice, perceived self-efficacy in dealing with head lice, and personal experience in reducing head lice problems. Survey data from a two-wave mailing from 382 school nurses found most nurses supported a "no-nit" rule of forced absenteeism of any child with nits in their hair (60%). They perceived OTC treatments for head lice as very effective in killing adult lice (66%), and 9% perceived them as not effective. Nurses had a high efficacy expectation regarding their ability to control head lice (63%), and they had high outcome expectations regarding the results of their work with students and families of students (66%). Most nurses received their information about head lice from professional journals (76%) and professional conferences/conventions (62%).

From eradication to resistance: five continuing concerns about pediculosis

A school nurse, serving in the capacity of infection control officer, is responsible for managing head lice infestations. The nurse's concerns on the student and parent levels include dispelling misconceptions about lice, screening, motivating correct treatment, and providing follow-up. The nurse's responsibility to the community as a whole also involves putting into practice policies that prevent the spread of infestations without promoting pediculicide resistance.