Head lice infestation among local and displaced secondary school girls and its effect on some haematological parameters in Kirkuk city

Abstract EN

Background: Head lice infestation is one of the most important health problems throughout of the world.

The species which cause pediculosis in humanus beings is Pediculus humanus capities.

Objectives: The aim of the current study is to estimate the distribution of head lice among local and displaced secondary school girls to assess haemoglobin and packed cell volume in Kirkuk city.

Methods: The hair of all students was examined by researchers and blood samples were drawn from each student for determination of haemoglobin concentration and PCV percentage.

A questionnaire form was filled for each student including personal and family information.

The student t-test was used to show significant difference of PCV and Hb between lice infested and non infested students.

Results: The overall rate of head lice infestation among secondary students girls was 34.7% (displaced 42.7% and local 26.7%).

The highest rate of infestation was among 16-18 years and lowest was among 13-15 years.

The highest rate in displaced students was among middle educated status, while in local students among low educated status.

The PCV and Hb values in infested girls were lower than non- infested ones.