Estonian Parents' Awareness of Pediculosis and Its Occurrence in Their Children

Background and Objectives: Pediculosis, or head lice infestation, is a widespread health problem that can affect anyone, regardless of gender, age, or social background. The purpose of this study was to clarify the occurrence of pediculosis among Estonian preschool- and primary school-aged children according to their parents and the parent’s awareness of pediculosis and related behaviors. Materials and Methods: An online questionnaire was completed by the parents of the preschool children (n = 1141) in 2019 and the parents of the elementary school children (n = 362) in 2021. For the descriptive data, t-test, Mann−Whitney or χ2 test, linear regression, and logistic regression analyses were applied. Results: According to the parents, pediculosis had occurred in 34.7% of the children, and more than one-third of pediculosis patients had experienced it more than twice. Lice were mainly acquired from elementary school or preschool and less often from friends, relatives, or training environments. Parents’ knowledge of head lice was rather good; the average score of the correct answers was 14.0 ± 3.4 (max. 20). In the multivariate analysis, higher age (coefficient 0.07, p < 0.001), healthcare education (coefficient 1.19, p < 0.001), and a previous occurrence of pediculosis in a family (coefficient 1.95; p < 0.001) were factors influencing better knowledge. In order to treat the infestation, antilice shampoo and combing were the most often used methods. Conclusion: Despite parents’ awareness, pediculosis infestations continue to be common among our children.

Stigma resulting from head lice infestation: A concept analysis and implications for public health

AIM

The aim of this concept analysis was to examine stigma in the context of head lice, illuminating its components and providing insights for the development of appropriate nursing interventions.

BACKGROUND

Stigma associated with the phenomenon of head lice management is pervasive, promulgating fear and influencing policy and treatment practices. Few studies have examined stigma in this context.

METHOD

The method followed was the Rodgers's evolutionary method.

DATA SOURCES

Health, education, and social sciences databases were searched and yielded 20 articles spanning 1996-2018 used to create a relevant literature review.

RESULTS

Stigma arising from head lice infestation is preceded by an actual or perceived case of head lice, negative perceptions of lice, negative perception of groups or persons with head lice, or being associated with a group or person of lesser status believed to be a carrier of head lice. Defining attributes include marks of infestation, negative and unfair beliefs, and shame. Consequences of stigma are economic costs, social costs, mistreatment, and overtreatment with pediculicides.

CONCLUSION

The concept of stigma in the context of head lice management is multifaceted. Further research is required to understand the magnitude of stigma as well as other factors associated with optimal treatment of children with head lice.