Clinical Report: Assessment of Scabies Prevalence in Khulna Division

Overview

This study assessed scabies prevalence among school-aged children in Khulna Division, Bangladesh, finding an overall prevalence of 40.35%. Key associated factors included poverty, overcrowding, and irregular bathing, with higher prevalence in madrasa students compared to school students.

Background

Scabies is a neglected tropical disease that significantly impacts children, particularly in low-resource settings, leading to physical and mental health issues, social stigma, and school absenteeism. The World Health Organization recognizes scabies as a major public health concern, especially in overcrowded environments. Understanding its prevalence and contributing factors is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Overall scabies prevalence was 40.35% among 394 children.
• Madrasa students had a higher prevalence (51.3%) compared to school students (31.65%).
• Key associated factors included poverty (aOR=3.07), overcrowding, and irregular bathing.
• Scabies risk was significantly higher among students from poorer households and those with close contact with affected individuals.
• Living in tin-shed houses and sharing personal items were also significant risk factors.

Clinical Implications

The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions in schools and madrasas to address scabies prevalence. Health education and community-level treatment strategies may be essential in reducing transmission in these settings.

Conclusion

The study reports a high prevalence of scabies among school-aged children in Khulna Division.

Related Resources & Content

1. International Alliance for the Control of Scabies, WHO, 2017 -- Scabies as a Neglected Tropical Disease
2. British Association for Sexual Health and HIV National Guideline on the Management of Scabies in adults 2025
3. Infection — Distribution of Schistosoma mansoni, soil-transmitted helminths, and intestinal protozoan infections among orphans and street children in Mwanza, Northern Tanzania
4. Drug Safety — Evaluating the Safety of Combined Praziquantel and Albendazole Treatment for Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Rwandan Children: Findings from an Active Surveillance Study
5. Infection — Occurrence of Intestinal Protozoan Parasites in Asian Schoolchildren: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
6. BMC Psychiatry (Springer) — Assessment of the Frequency and Contributing Factors of Suicidal Thoughts and Attempts in Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Analysis in Public and Private Schools of Jhang, Pakistan
7. 2020 International Alliance for the Control of Scabies Consensus Criteria for the Diagnosis of Scabies
8. British Association for Sexual Health and HIV National Guideline on the Management of Scabies in adults 2025