PREVENTION OF THE SPREAD OF SCABIES AND FUNGAL DISEASES IN CHILDREN'S INSTITUTIONS: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS AND INTERVENTION STRATEGY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55640/Keywords:
Scabies, dermatomycosis, fungal infections, pediatric epidemiology, prevention, children's institutions, active surveillance.Abstract
Background: Parasitic and fungal skin diseases, specifically scabies and dermatophytosis (mycoses), remain a significant public health concern in organized pediatric populations. Kindergartens and schools, characterized by high physical contact density, serve as reservoirs for transmission. This study aims to evaluate the epidemiological situation of these dermatoses in children's institutions in the Andijan region and assess the efficacy of an integrated preventive "Active Surveillance" model. Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted across 12 preschools and primary schools involving 1,500 children. The institutions were divided into an Intervention Group (n=6), implementing active weekly screening, staff training, and environmental disinfection, and a Control Group (n=6) following standard reactive protocols. The incidence of new cases and the duration of outbreaks were monitored over one academic year. Results: The baseline prevalence of fungal infections (tinea capitis/corporis) was 4.2%, and scabies was 1.5%. Following the intervention, the incidence of new cases in the Intervention Group decreased by 75% compared to the Control Group (p < 0.001). "Active Surveillance" allowed for the detection of atypical and paucisymptomatic forms, preventing cluster outbreaks. Conclusion: The spread of contagious dermatoses in children's institutions is driven by delayed diagnosis and asymptomatic carriage. Implementing a proactive screening strategy combined with hygienic education for staff and parents significantly reduces the burden of disease.
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