Health Awareness Level of some Infectious External Parasites among Pupils in the Second Cycle of Basic Education

Abstract

The aim of the current research is to identify the level of health awareness regarding some infectious external parasites among students of the second cycle of basic education. The educational classes followed descriptive and analytical classes. The research tool was determined from a written questionnaire of (9) items. It was designed on the basis of a three-point Likert scale. The questionnaire was applied to a group of (400) students who learned it from basic educational schools in the city of Aleppo. The results showed that the level of health awareness regarding some infectious external parasites among second year students is generally lower than average. They also showed that there are statistically significant differences in the level of health awareness of infectious diseases (lice and scabies) according to the gender variable in favor of males. There are no statistically significant differences in the level of health awareness of infectious diseases (lice and scabies) according to the variables of academic year and area of ​​residence. These results indicate the need to improve health awareness of infectious diseases (lice and scabies) among second year students, especially females. The researcher recommends implementing health awareness and education programs in schools, in cooperation with public health authorities, to enhance awareness of the importance of prevention and recognition of symptoms and methods of treating infectious diseases such as lice and scabies. Awareness lectures, interactive workshops, and distribution of educational publications can be included to achieve this goal. The needs of different genders and age groups must also be taken into account in designing programs to ensure that the message is conveyed effectively.