Ringworm Infection in Nigeria: Investigating the Role of Barbers in Disease Transmission
[1]
Felix E. Emele, Department of Medical Microbiology, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus，Awka, Nigeria.
[2]
Christie A. Oyeka, Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
[3]
Chika F. Ubajaka, Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Awka, Nigeria.
Ringworm infection continues to be problem the world over. In our earlier study, barbing shop was reported as the most frequently incriminated source of ringworm disease and necessitated this study. A total of 78 randomly selected Barbers were enlisted in the survey. Questionnaires were served to determine the knowledge and attitudes of the barbers toward ringworm infection. Disinfectant agents used by barbers to decontaminate their clippers were tested for sporicidal activity against fungi. Seventy five (96%) of the barbers were aware that their clippers could transmit different diseases, including ringworm. All the barbers (100%) habitually decontaminated their clippers either by exposure to chemical agents or by flaming with chemical agents; the most frequently applied agent was methylated spirit (57 or 73%). Twenty seven (35%) of the barbers decontaminated their clippers by flaming with petrol, while 13 (16%) flamed with methylated spirit. In vitro evaluation of the chemical agents for fungicidal activity showed that sodium hypochlorite was the most effective, with a minimum disinfectant contact time of 5min; flaming of clippers with methylated spirit or petrol, did not inactivate fungal spores on clippers. It is concluded that the current clipper- decontamination options be reviewed.
Ringworm Transmission, Barbers’ Role, Nigeria
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