Prevalence of scabies and pediculosis in Ghezel Hesar prison

Background: Pediculosis and scabies are infectious diseases that can spread easily in overcrowded places, like prisons. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of these diseases in Ghezel Hesar prison (a male prison). Materials and methods: For this descriptive study, 1404 prisoners in Ghezel Hesar prison were included. The prisoners were evaluated clinically by two experienced dermatologists for scabies and pediculosis. Results: Of 1404 prisoners, 31 (2.2%) were infested with Sarcoptes scabiei and 12 (0.9%) with body louse. There were no cases of head or crab lice. All of the subjects with scabies and 83% of Pediculosis corporis infestation had intense pruritus. There was a significant reverse association between the duration of imprisonment and these diseases. Pediculosis and scabies were more common among new prisoners (p < 0.001). Scabies was more common in overcrowded cells. In Pediculosis group there were more opium addicted individuals (p < 0.01). Conclusion: We recommend examining the newly admitted prisoners for scabies and pediculosis by a dermatologist or a trained doctor in order to reduce the spread of these diseases.