A notable increase in cases of scabies, a once-common skin infection prevalent during the Victorian era, has raised health concerns among parents in the UK. Reports indicate that South Devon College in Torbay, Devon, has confirmed seven cases among its students, prompting communication with parents regarding the formal diagnosis made by health professionals. While the rise in infections has caused some alarm, health officials are urging calm.
Torbay Council has identified a “small number” of scabies cases in the area but has clarified that no schools in Devon or Torbay have been required to close. In a statement, Lincoln Sargeant, Director of Public Health at Torbay Council, emphasized that scabies is typically not a serious condition that necessitates reporting to health authorities. He noted, “Scabies is not usually a serious condition that needs to be reported to health authorities. It usually only spreads after skin-to-skin contact in close household type settings.”
Understanding Scabies and Its Symptoms
Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, leading to an intensely itchy rash as the parasites burrow into the skin. This skin condition can spread rapidly through prolonged close contact. Symptoms may take up to eight weeks to manifest after infection, and the rash often spreads across the body, excluding the head and neck. The NHS highlights that the rash typically appears between the fingers, around the wrists, under the arms, and in the groin area.
Older adults and young children may exhibit rashes on their heads, necks, palms, and soles of their feet, which can complicate diagnosis. Dr. Firas Al-Niaimi, a consultant dermatologist based in London, remarked, “Scabies is very contagious and spreads very quickly, so it needs to be caught early to limit infections.” The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a significant surge in diagnoses, increasing from approximately 1,400 in 2022 to nearly 4,900 in 2024.
Advice for Parents and Treatment Options
Despite the rise in cases, authorities have reassured the public that individual schools are directly communicating with parents about any concerns. “No schools in Torbay have closed because of this,” Sargeant stated. Families are encouraged to consult with their child’s school for further information and guidance.
For accurate and comprehensive details regarding scabies symptoms and treatment, the NHS recommends visiting their website at www.nhs.uk/conditions/scabies or consulting a general practitioner or pharmacist. Effective treatment is crucial, as all members of a household must be treated simultaneously, even if they do not show symptoms.
In summary, while the increase in scabies cases in schools has understandably raised concerns, health officials emphasize the importance of understanding the condition, its transmission, and the need for timely treatment. Parents are urged to remain informed and proactive in seeking assistance.
