Epidemiological study of scabies in different environmental conditions in central poland.
OBJECTIVE
The goal of the research was to determine the spreading of Sarcoptes scabiei and the incidence of scabies in the residents of particular districts of the Swietokrzyskie Voivodeship (Central Europe) from 1990 to 1998.


METHODS
An epidemiological analysis of scabies incidents was performed, with a focus on the age and sex patterns of the population, seasonal incidence, and environmental conditions. In the entire area covered in the period studied, a total of 2064 cases of scabies were reported. The incidence of scabies was typically higher in rural areas than in cities. The most cases of scabies were noted in children and teenagers between 6 and 15 years of age.


RESULTS
The research indicated that prevalence of the disease within a family is an important factor in scabies epidemiology in the Swietokrzyskie Voivodeship. The incidence of scabies is seasonal in its nature, as the majority of cases occurred in the autumn and winter months.


CONCLUSIONS
The incidence of the disease can be reduced by improving socioeconomic and hygienic conditions and by implementing a proper system of social education, as well as by promoting more efficient health service.
Buczek
Alicja
A
Department of Biology and Parasitology, Skubiszewski Medical University of Lublin, Lublin, Poland. alicja.buczek@am.lublin.pl
Pabis
Bogumila
B
Bartosik
Katarzyna
K
Stanislawek
Iwona Monika
IM
Salata
Monika
M
Pabis
Artur
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000818:Animals; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011044:Poland / Q000453:epidemiology; D012520:Sarcoptes scabiei / Q000254:growth & development*; D012532:Scabies / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000469:parasitology