Epidemiology of lice among Polish youth - 5-year follow-up based on sales data in stationary pharmacies

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to analyze the severity of lice epidemics in annual cycles in 2019-2023, based on the sale figures of anti-lice preparations throughout Poland in stationary pharmacies Material and Methods: The study included a 5-year retrospective analysis of the sale of anti-lice products in a nationwide sample of pharmacies. The analysis period includes sales from 1.01.2019 to 31.12.2023. The data in this study were obtained from a nationwide sample of stationary pharmacies. The data analysed are representative at the national level and were carried out on a sample of approximately 6500 pharmacies (over 50% of all existing pharmacies). Results: In the years 2019-2023, 5.16 million (Mean 1.42; SD 0.41) anti-lice preparations were sold in the group of pharmacies under observation. Proportions of sales of anti-lice products taking into account the product category breakdown were: patches, rubber bands 3.4%, aerosol liquids 56%, shampoos 40.6%. The analysis showed an increased demand for anti-lice agents in September and October. Conclousions: The number of purchased anti-lice products is growing in higher-income voivodeships, which may be related to greater awareness and preventive measures of this part of the Polish population. The period of increased demand for lice preparations is related to the school calendar and increases after school children return to their classes after long breaks (holidays). The COVID-19 period and the change in the mode of education to remote or hybrid is noticeable, in that way that it is linked to reduced potential transmission of lice.