Rome, 24 August 2024 – Lice in children: I am cases increased compared to pre-pandemic years? Pediatrician Italo Farnetani answers yes to Adnkronos. His premise is that there are no official data, because pediculosis – such as otitis – “is not among the problems subject to mandatory reporting”. But “from a sample survey I conducted among pediatricians, doctors and pharmacists in various parts of Italy, it appears that there are currently more cases”.
We asked three questions to Annamaria Staiano, National President of Sipthe Italian Society of Pediatrics.
“Certainly – is the reasoning of President Staiano – Heat increases all viral agents, parasites and bacteria. Therefore, an increase in cases of pediculosis can occur especially in overcrowded areas. Even thehumidity favors the development of these microorganisms”.
“I advise parents first of all to take care of their children’s hygiene and to pay attention to signs, such as an itchy scalp. To check for the presence of these small microorganisms, from the larval stage. It only takes one person to spread lice quickly.”
Lice, the expert reminds us, can return many times. This is also why “once they have been identified, more treatments are needed and above all ensure hygiene that is as thorough as possible to avoid even larval lice”.