GPs advise not to ignore scabies symptoms as increase continues (UK) 24/Oct/2024

People are being told not to ignore an itchy rash, with GPs in England reporting a spike in scabies - the highly infectious skin infestation.

The condition is caused by a mite which burrows under the skin to lay eggs and is spread through close physical contact, bedding and clothes.

It can spread quickly in places where people live closely together, such as universities and care homes, the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) said.

However, "social stigma" prevented people coming forward, it said.

Prof Kamila Hawthorne, RCGP chairwoman, said while incidences remained infrequent, the number of GP diagnoses was "above the five-year average and rising, with the north of England seeing a spike in cases".

"While not a serious condition, scabies can be very itchy and irritating," she said.

"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."

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