Effectiveness of Different Scabies Control Interventions among Madrasa Students of Tungipara Sub-district, Bangladesh

Scabies is a parasitic skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei affecting millions worldwide particularly in overcrowded settings like madrassas in Bangladesh. This cluster randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of different public health approaches for controlling scabies among madrassa students in Tungipara Subdistrict Bangladesh.

A total of 16 madrassas with approximately 1600 participants will be randomly allocated to four intervention groups. Arm A receives Mass Drug Administration plus health education with either Permethrin 5 percent cream or Oral Ivermectin (200 microgram per kg body weight). Arm B receives targeted therapy (cases and close contacts only) plus health education with the same drugs. Topical Permethrin is applied overnight for two rounds seven days apart. Oral Ivermectin is taken on empty stomach for two rounds seven days apart.

The primary outcome is point prevalence of active scabies at one month post intervention. Secondary outcomes include prevalence and reinfestation rates at 06 and 12 months adverse events acceptability adherence changes in hygiene related knowledge attitudes and practices cost effectiveness and barriers and facilitators to program implementation.

This study will provide evidence on optimal public health strategies for scabies control in high risk institutional settings and inform routine program implementation in Bangladesh.