Prevalence of scabies and impetigo in school-age children in Timor-Leste

Abstract Background Scabies and impetigo are endemic in many tropical, low- middle-income countries. Mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin has emerged as a control strategy for these conditions. In 2019, Timor-Leste Ministry of Health planned to implement MDA including the lymphatic filariasis, so we undertook baseline assessment scabies better understand local epidemiology contribute future surveys assessing impact MDA. Methods A cross-sectional school survey was conducted April–May 2019 at six primary schools semi-urban (Dili) two rural (Ermera Manufahi) settings. Children under 19 years age present on days were eligible participate, whom enrolled 1183. Trained health workers interviewed examined 1043 participants clinically diagnose using 2020 International Alliance Control (IACS) diagnostic criteria, well impetigo. Prevalence adjusted sex. Mixed-effects logistic regression models used analyse odds infection. All accounted clustering level through use random effect terms. Population attributable risk cause also estimated. Results The overall weighted prevalence 30.6%. Manufahi more likely have than those Dili (53.6% vs 28.2%, ratio [AOR] 3.5). Most cases mild (3 10 lesions), lesions usually distributed one body region. lower among 14 year olds compared 5 9 olds. Overall 11.3%. Relative Dili, children Ermera twice Impetigo common without, corresponding an 22.7%. Conclusions is highest reported globally, particularly areas. infestation strongly associated Comprehensive strategies urgently needed Timor-Leste. Graphical