Assessment of the prevalence of scabies and associated risk factors

BackgroundScabies remains a significant public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly among children and the elderly. It is mostly found in developing countries, and it has health effects due to its discomfort and secondary bacterial infection. In Zambia, there is limited data on the burden and determinants of scabies, particularly in high-risk areas like Zumbe Health Post (HP) in Mafinga District. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of scabies and its associated risk factors among children under five years old in Mafinga District, Zambia. MethodologyA cross-sectional study design was employed. Two sampling techniques were used: purposive and simple random to select 307 under-five children and their caregivers. Scabies diagnosis was based on clinical examination set by the International Alliance for the Control of Scabies (IACS, 2020), and data on associated risk factors was collected via structured questionnaire. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were conducted to identify associations between scabies and risk factors. ResultsThe prevalence of scabies was 5.21% (16/307; 95% CI: 2.8%-7.6%). Most cases (68.75%) were mild. Multivariable analysis identified that caregivers who took longer to fetch water had significantly higher odds of scabies among their children (AOR: 3.8; 95% CI: 2.61-5.82; p< 0.001). Higher caregiver education levels were associated with lower scabies risk (AORs: 0.02- 0.03), and high knowledge of scabies among caregivers was significantly associated with lower scabies prevalence (p = 0.02). ConclusionScabies prevalence in Zumbe Health Post was moderate. This Moderate highlights the need for targeted interventions in the community. Efforts should focus on improving caregiver education and access to clean water to help reduce the incidence of this condition among children. Provision of health education and improvement of hygiene practices are suggested. These strategies can empower caregivers with the knowledge and resources necessary to prevent scabies transmission. Author summaryThis study was carried out in the Zumbe catchment area in Mafinga district, Zambia. It aimed to assess the prevalence of scabies and associated risk factors among under five-year-old children. The study involved guided questionnaire and clinical skin examination for scabies. Finding revealed moderate prevalence of Scabies and access to water on time taken and knowledge level as associated risk factors of scabies. There is a need to improve on hygiene practice and community health promotion to protect the children from Scabies.