Scabies outbreak sparks doctors' warning to look for early symptoms of infectious disease

Doctors across the UK are urgently warning Brits not to ignore early symptoms of scabies following a significant increase in cases.

Scabies are microscopic mites that burrow under the skin and lay eggs, causing the intense itching and recognisable rash. If left untreated, it can cause serious skin conditions.

Experts from the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) say that people who live in close contact with each other, such as university halls of residence and care homes, are particularly vulnerable. And they fear that people may avoid coming forward due to the "social stigma" regarding the infection.

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NHS figures indicate a significant increase in scabies diagnoses in hospitals across England, with 3,689 cases recorded in the year to April, up from 2,128 the previous year.

A noticeable rise in scabies has been observed in the north of England. Prof Kamila Hawthorne, chairwoman of the RCGP, said that while it is not yet a common infection, numbers are currently "above the five-year average and rising".

She 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."

What are the symptoms to look out for?

Symptoms of scabies are

• 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.

How do I get rid of scabies?

Visit your GP or pharmacist who can prescribe you with a cream or lotion to apply to your body. You have to repeat the treatment one week later and it's important that everyone in your home is treated at the same time, even if they aren't showing symptoms.

Can scabies live in my bed or mattress?

Mites may temporarily live on or in a mattress, but they need human skin to survive. Mites can appear on virtually anything but they’ll die after a few days.

Machine wash your bedding and clothes at a hot temperature and vacuum your mattress and around your bed to get rid of any mites that might be hanging around.

You can read the NHS guidance for more information about scabies.