A hospital ward in Carmarthen, Wales, has been temporarily closed following an outbreak of crusted scabies, a rare and highly contagious form of the Victorian-era disease that is seeing a resurgence across the United Kingdom.
Ward Closure and Infection Control Measures
Steffan Ward at Glangwili Hospital was shut down to manage the outbreak "in line with established infection prevention and control procedures," according to Hywel Dda University Health Board. The health board confirmed that patients and staff identified as contacts have been offered treatment, including those not displaying symptoms.
Additional infection prevention and control measures have been implemented on the ward, including enhanced monitoring, treatment of identified contacts, and ongoing support from specialist teams, as reported by BBC Wales.
Understanding Scabies and Crusted Scabies
According to the NHS, scabies is an itchy rash caused by mites that spreads through close skin contact. Symptoms include intense itching, particularly at night, and a raised rash or spots that may appear red. The rash typically spreads across the whole body, apart from the head and neck, often affecting skin between the fingers, around the wrists, under the arms, and around the waist, groin, and bottom.
People with weakened immune systems can sometimes develop crusted scabies, a rare and very contagious type. The main symptom is a crusted, flaky rash that often affects the elbows, knees, hands, and feet. Scabies spreads through close skin contact, including sexual contact, but cannot be contracted from pets.
Risk Factors and Return to Work or School
Individuals who live or work in close proximity, such as in nurseries, university halls of residence, or nursing homes, face a higher risk of contracting scabies. Adults and children aged five years or above can return to work or school immediately after beginning treatment, but it is crucial to stay away from close contact with others for the initial 24 hours.
