Knowledge and Preventive Practices of Lice Infestation among Undergraduate Hostel Students in Abia State University Uturu, Nigeria
Uka-Kalu, Ezinne Chioma *
Department of Public Health, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Uwaeme, ThankGod Chimeremeze
Department of Public Health, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Egwim Urenna Favour
Department of Public Health, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Head lice infestation (pediculosis) is a common public health problem worldwide, particularly among individuals living in close quarters, such as university hostels. Despite its high prevalence, limited research has examined knowledge, prevalence, treatment practices, and preventive behaviours among university students in Nigeria.
Objective: This study assessed knowledge, prevalence, treatment methods, treatment effectiveness, preventive practices, and factors associated with head lice infestation among undergraduate hostel students at Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 undergraduate hostel students selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression at a significance level of p < 0.05.
Results: The majority of respondents were female (62.5%) and were aged 21–25 years (46.5%). Awareness of lice was high (83.0%), but comprehensive knowledge was limited, with only 21.0% demonstrating good knowledge. Lifetime prevalence of infestation was 53.5%, while current prevalence was 17.0%. Treatment methods included pharmacy-bought lotions (67.9%), wet combing (56.5%), prescription medication (45.9%), and kerosene (19.6%). Complete treatment success was reported by 28.0% of all respondents. Preventive practices were poor among 76.8% of respondents. Major barriers to management were embarrassment or stigma (29.5%), lack of treatment knowledge (24.0%), and cost (21.5%). Logistic regression revealed that Yoruba students had significantly lower odds of good knowledge than Igbo students (AOR = 0.279, 95% CI: 0.097–0.804). A significant but paradoxical association was observed between knowledge and practice (p = 0.032).
Conclusion: Head lice infestation is highly prevalent among undergraduate hostel students, with substantial knowledge gaps, poor preventive practices, and potentially hazardous treatment practices, including kerosene use. Stigma remains the major barrier to effective management. Comprehensive, theory-based health education interventions addressing knowledge, attitudes, barriers, and stigma are needed.
Keywords: Head lice infestation, Pediculosis capitis, knowledge, preventive practices, undergraduate students, university hostels, public health.