Scabies Outbreak Among Children in Kabanga Village, Zambia: Prevalence and Contributing Factors

Abstract

Introduction: Scabies, a contagious skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, remains a significant public health concern, particularly in resource-limited settings. Despite its widespread occurrence, limited evidence exists on its burden and determinants in Zambia, especially among children in rural areas. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of scabies and identify factors contributing to its outbreak among children in Kabanga Village, Samfya District, Zambia.

Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 255 caregivers selected through systematic random sampling (interval = 2). Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 29. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed, with Chi- square tests used to explore associations between scabies prevalence and potential determinants. Statistical significance was set at p ≤0.05.

Results: Among participating children, 54% were female, and 60.6% were aged between 5 and 9 years. Most caregivers (65.2%) had completed primary education. The overall prevalence of scabies among children was 54.0% (95% CI: 47.1%–60.8%). Factors significantly associated with scabies occurrence included the child's age (p = 0.037), caregiver's education level (p = 0.043), household size (p = 0.043), contact with known scabies cases (p = 0.001), and bathing frequency. Common preventive practices included daily skin checks for rashes (89.3%), surface disinfection several times per week (54.5%), and waiting for symptoms to subside before seeking care (47.5%). Despite some preventive behaviours, inconsistent practices contributed to continued transmission.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of scabies among children in Kabanga Village is strongly linked to social, behavioural, and environmental factors. Strengthening community education, promoting improved hygiene behaviours, and enhancing access to healthcare services are critical interventions to reduce scabies transmission and improve child health outcomes in rural Zambia.