Molecular survey of head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) infestation among disadvantaged children in Klang Valley, Malaysia
https://doi.org/10.47665/tb.38.4.102
- Author:
Mokhtar, A.S.
1
Author Information
1. Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia, Jalan Batu Hampar, 75150 Bukit Baru, Melaka, Malaysia
- Publication Type:Other Types
- Keywords:
COI;
DNA barcoding;
disadvantaged children;
head lice;
Malaysia
- From:Tropical Biomedicine
2021;38(No.4):590-593
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Ectoparasitic infestations including pediculosis capitis are common in people of
disadvantaged communities as they live in overcrowded institutions, a condition that often
favourable for disease transmission. In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of head lice
infestation among disadvantaged children aged between five to 14 years-old living in five
poor conditions located across the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Of total 335 children examined,
14% were positively infected with head lice. Molecular analysis using the universal
cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) barcoding gene on total of 167 head lice collected in
this study indicated they are belonging to the A and C clades; confirming the global distribution
of clade A and expansion of clade C in Southeast Asia, which is reported for the first time in
Malaysia.
- Full text:8.2021my1302.pdf
