UK Sees Surge in Scabies Cases: Doctors Urge Prompt Medical Attention
The UK is currently facing an unusually large outbreak of scabies, and health professionals are urging the public to seek medical advice if they notice any signs of the condition—particularly red spots on the skin. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to further spread and complications.
Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, resulting in intense itching and a rash. It spreads easily through close skin-to-skin contact, and early treatment is key to preventing transmission.
Common symptoms include severe itching—especially at night—and a raised rash or clusters of small red bumps. The rash often appears on the hands (particularly between the fingers), wrists, underarms, waist, groin, and buttocks. However, in young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems, scabies can also affect the head, neck, palms, and soles.
A more severe form, known as crusted scabies, may develop in immunocompromised individuals. This highly contagious variant causes thick, flaky rashes, typically on the elbows, knees, hands, and feet.
According to NHS data, over 3,600 people have been diagnosed with scabies in hospitals across the country. Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners, notes that many avoid seeking medical help due to the social stigma associated with the condition. She added that GP diagnoses are currently “above the five-year average and continuing to rise,” with a significant increase reported in the north of England.
“While scabies is not a serious medical condition, it can cause considerable discomfort,” Prof. Hawthorne said. “Without proper treatment, it can spread quickly and may lead to complications such as secondary skin infections or exacerbate existing skin conditions.”
One of the contributing factors to the growing outbreak, beyond stigma, is a national shortage of scabies treatments—further complicating efforts to control the spread.
