MAGNITUDE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SCABIES AMONG PRIMARY SCHOOL CHILDREN IN GORO GUTU WOREDA, EAST HARARGHE ZONE, ETHIOPIA.

Abstract

Introduction: Scabies affects more than 300 million people, causing significant morbidity, particularly in nations with few resources. In Ethiopia, guidelines for handling outbreaks have been developed by the federal ministry of health. However, an investigation remains limited to some regions, and health extension workers who can miss cases do diagnosis.

Objective: To determine the magnitude and factors associated with scabies among primary school children in Goro Gutu woreda, east Hararghe zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia, from October 20 to November 20, 2022.

Method: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 460 primary school children in the Goro Gutu woreda from October 20 to November 20, 2022. Data were collected using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire and a physical examination. Dates were analyzed using Stata version 15. Bivariable and multivariable analyses were employed to identify factors associated with scabies. Finally, the statistical significance level was declared at a p value less than 0.05.

Result: The overall magnitude of scabies was 11.4% [(95%CI: 8, 14)]. Lower grade level of (1-4 grade) (AOR=3.09, 95%CI (1.32, 7.25)], family of illiterate father (AOR=2.68, 95%CI (1.32, 5.44)] and not taking bath with water and soap [AOR=3.22, 95%CI (1.07, 9.66)] were factors significantly associated with scabies.

Conclusion: Schoolchildren in the Goro Gutu district of eastern Ethiopia had high scabies rates based on the 2015 Ethiopian guideline for control of scabies outbreaks, which strongly correlated with children's grade level, fathers' educational status, and the frequency of taking a bath with soap and water. Improving the hygienic behavior of students in institutions and communities is recommended.