Doctors are warning Brits not to ignore an irritating rash as GPs report a surge in scabies cases. The skin condition can be easily contracted through close physical contact, bedding and clothes, spreading rapidly in places where groups of people live together, such as university halls of residence. NHS figures show some 3,689 cases of the Victorian-era disease were detected in hospitals in England in the year to April, rising from 2,128 the year before.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne, Chair of the Royal College of GPs, said: "While not a serious condition, scabies can be very itchy and irritating, and can be easily contracted through close physical contact. "If not properly treated, it can spread and increase a patient’s risk of complications such as secondary skin infections or make existing skin conditions worse." The professor added that the rate scabies is spreading in general practice is above the five year average and rising.
A spike in cases has been reported in the North of England, although "incidences are still infrequent", according to Professor Hawthorne. She urged anyone with scabies or who thinks they might have it not to be put off seeking treatment, adding: "We recognise patients may be apprehensive to seek treatment given the social stigma that surrounds the condition. "But it is important they don’t ignore their symptoms as this could lead to them getting worse and risks transmitting the condition to other people – particularly if they are living in close.
