Hygiene and skin infections among children below 15 years in Rukindo Primary School, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, Bushenyi District- Western Uganda

Abstract

Background and objectives: Skin infections are among the common diseases in children of Africa. Among the factors contributing to high prevalence of skin infections, poor hygiene is the most apparent factor yet can be controllable. Schools are organized communities where children from different families with different social status spend much of their time. The role of school is important for cognitive, creative and social development of children. Education regarding proper sanitation and hygiene practices is necessary for control of skin diseases plus having a safe, secure and healthy environment so that children can have a better life. Since the relationship of hygiene and skin infections among children below 15 years was not yet well established as a problem concern and still stands, my research aimed at assessing possible hygiene related skin infections, contribution of poor hygiene towards the development of these infections with its factors that precipitate un improved hygiene and the prevention measures of these skin infections in children under 15 years studying in Rukindo Primary School of Bushenyi, Uganda. Methodology: A community based cross-sectional study was done amongst the primary school children in Rukindo Primary school with the help of a predesigned and pretested questionnaire, verbal interaction and random clinical examination. Data analysis was done. Results: Out of 200 pupils, 68 I.e. 34% had the commonly known skin infections where 21% were boys and 13% were girls making a ratio of 21:13 showing a more prevalence in boys. Common skin diseases were ring worms; 8.8%, scabies; 11.8%, tungiasis/ jiggers 35.3%, generalized dry or wet skin rashes 39.7% other skin diseases like carbuncles, furuncles (boils), and others 19.1%. Many of these pupils had super infections and appeared to have more than one infection. Conclusion: In this study, prevalence of skin infection found to be clubbed in the lower socioeconomic group, day scholars and in boys than girls. Hence, health education among the children as well as their parents to promote proper awareness and practice of personal hygiene hence reduce various skin-related health problems is necessary. Key words: Personal hygiene, Primary school children, Skin infection