Epidemiology of lice among Polish youth — 5-year follow-up based on sales data in stationary pharmacies

The study aimed to analyse the severity of lice epidemics in annual cycles in 2019–2023, based on the sales figures of anti-lice preparations throughout Poland in stationary pharmacies. The study included a 5-year retrospective analysis of the sale of anti-lice products in a nationwide sample of pharmacies. The analysis period includes sales from 1.01.2019 to 31.12.2023. This study was obtained from a nationwide sample of stationary pharmacies. The data analysed are representative at the national level and were carried out on a sample of approximately 6500 pharmacies (over 50% of all existing pharmacies). In the years 2019–2023, 5.16 million (Mean 1.42; SD 0.41) anti-lice preparations were sold. Proportions of sales of anti-lice products considering the product category breakdown were patches, rubber bands 3.4%, aerosol liquids 56%, and shampoos 40.6%. The analysis showed an increased demand for anti-lice agents in September–October. The number of purchased anti-lice products is growing in higher-income voivodeships, which may be related to greater awareness and preventive measures of this part of the Polish population. The period of increased demand for lice preparations is related to the school calendar and increases after school children return to their classes after long breaks (holidays).