Abstract

Background:Scabies is a worldwide contagious skin disease. School environment makes students vulnerable to cross-transmission ofcommunicable skin diseases.

Aim: This study aims to estimate the prevalence of scabies amongst school students and to determine the predisposing factors of scabies infestation in public and private schools.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted over a period two months. Students were selected from different schools and grades with a total of 3000.

Results: Scabies prevalence was 4.8% in the study group. The prevalence was higher in public schools than private schools and in boys more than girls.

Conclusion: Scabies remains a significant public health problem. Regular screenings and periodic health education programs for students and their parents promoting health awareness and attitudes are of prime importance.

Keywords: School students; Scabies; Prevalence