Scabies causes intense itching(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Doctors warn of outbreak of Victorian disease and list key symptoms

by · BristolLive

Doctors have issued an update regarding an alarming increase in scabies in the UK, emphasising that ignoring symptoms of this highly contagious skin condition could lead to severe consequences. Medical professionals have identified a surge in cases of the infestation which is caused by microscopic mites which leads to intense irritation and a rash.

This increase is attributed to close proximity environments such as university accommodation, nurseries and care homes. Health experts from the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) are concerned that the associated "social stigma" of having scabies might deter individuals from seeking help.

Below we have outlined everything you need to know about scabies. This includes treatments, why the outbreak is happening and an outline of the main symptoms to look out for.

What are the symptoms of scabies?

  • intense itching, especially at night
  • a raised rash or spots

According to the NHS, the spots may look red. These are more difficult to see on brown or black skin, but you should be able to feel them, reports the Mirror.

Where is this outbreak happening?

According to NHS data, England has seen hospital diagnosed scabies cases jump to 3,689 in the year up to April, a significant increase from the 2,128 reported in the previous year. Prof Kamila Hawthorne of the RCGP highlighted that while scabies might not commonly occur, the current figures are alarmingly "above the five-year average and rising".

The north of England, in particular, is seeing a marked rise in scabies instances. Speaking to the BBC, Prof Hawthorne said: "While not a serious condition, scabies can be very itchy and irritating. 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."

A scabies mite lays its eggs under human skin(Image: Getty Images/Science Photo Library RF)

How do I treat scabies?

Your pharmacist can give you a cream or lotion that you apply to your whole body. You should let them if you're breastfeeding or pregnant.

The treatment will need to repeated a week later, and it can take up to 8 weeks for the rash to appear. It's important that everyone in your home is treated at the same time, even if they aren't showing symptoms.

Pharmacy treatments for scabies shouldn't be used on children under 2 years old, and they will need to see a GP. Any sexual partners you've had in the past 8 weeks should also be treated, according to NHS guidance.