Journal article
Scabies and impetigo in Samoa: A school-based clinical and molecular epidemiological study
George Taiaroa, Ben Matalavea, Malama Tafuna'i, Jake A Lacey, David J Price, Lupeoletalalelei Isaia, Hinauri Leaupepe, Satupaitea Viali, Darren Lee, Claire L Gorrie, Deborah A Williamson, Susan Jack
LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC | ELSEVIER | Published : 2021
Abstract
Background: Common infections of the skin such as impetigo and scabies represent a large burden of disease globally, being particularly prevalent in tropical and resource-limited settings. Efforts to address these infections through mass drug administrations have recently been shown as efficacious and safe. In Samoa, a Pacific Island nation, there is a marked lack of epidemiological data for these neglected tropical diseases, or appreciation of their drivers in this setting. Methods: An observational, cross-sectional survey of children aged between 4 and 15 years attending primary schools in rural areas of Upolu Island, Samoa was carried out to assess the prevalence of impetigo and scabies i..
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Funding Acknowledgements
We are grateful for the support of the National University of Samoa, Faculty of Medicine for their support of the current study, and the following senior medical students who collected the data for this study: Fogalele Vaesavali, Margaret Iumalo-Sesega, Taila Johnston, Fiona Seumanutafa, Epaggelia Efu, Laine Elia, Regina Duseigneur, Stanley Black, Celestun Tipamaa, Michaelangelo Leota, Sila Fanene, Teaukura Puna, Elaine Sililo and Tito Junior Kamu. We also acknowledge the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital Laboratory staff. The authors gratefully acknowledge the traditional peoples of the land on which the Melbourne, Australia component of the work was carried out, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people of the Kulin nation.