Why are scabies cases increasing in the UK?

Scabies cases are increasing in the UK due to widespread misinformation and stigma surrounding the condition, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment, as well as potential reinfection.

What are the symptoms of scabies and how is it spread?

Scabies causes an itchy rash, often starting between the fingers, as microscopic mites burrow into the skin. It is spread through close skin-to-skin contact.

What are the current treatments for scabies in the UK?

Traditional treatments like permethrin cream are becoming less effective due to mite resistance. The NHS approved Ivermectin, an oral tablet, in 2023 as an alternative, and high-temperature washing of bedding and clothing is also advised.

Home / Health / UK Scabies Surge: Victorian Disease Spreads!

UK Scabies Surge: Victorian Disease Spreads!

27 Jan

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Summary

Scabies cases have significantly increased across the UK in the last three years.
Misinformation and stigma prevent timely diagnosis and treatment of scabies.
Traditional treatments like permethrin cream show growing resistance, with Ivermectin as an alternative.

UK Scabies Surge: Victorian Disease Spreads!

Scabies cases have seen a significant spike across the UK over the past three years, prompting concern from health officials. The UK Health Security Agency reported a notable increase, with general practitioners documenting nearly 900 cases in England alone, a nearly 20% rise compared to the previous year. This resurgence of the intensely itchy skin condition is partly blamed on public misunderstanding and the stigma surrounding it, according to dermatology experts.

Professor Tess McPherson of the University of Oxford highlighted that misinformation leads people to dismiss or misidentify scabies, which is spread through skin-to-skin contact. This makes it prevalent in close-contact environments like shared housing, university halls, and care homes. Factors contributing to the rise include delayed diagnosis, treatment initiation, and embarrassment, which hinders effective management and can lead to reinfection.