A ward at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen, Wales, has been closed following an outbreak of crusted scabies, a rare and highly contagious form of the disease. Hywel Dda health board announced the closure of Steffan Ward to manage the outbreak in line with established infection prevention and control procedures.
Infection control measures implemented
The health board stated that support and advice have been provided through its Infection Prevention and Control team, and additional measures have been implemented, including enhanced monitoring, treatment of identified contacts, and ongoing support from specialist teams. All patients and staff identified as contacts have been informed and offered treatment, even those without symptoms.
What is crusted scabies?
Crusted scabies, formerly known as Norwegian scabies, is a rare but highly contagious form of scabies that causes a rash and crusts of skin containing thousands of mites. The disease is transmitted through close skin contact, and anyone can contract it. Individuals with reduced immunity are more susceptible to this type of scabies.
Rise in scabies across the region
Hywel Dda health board reported a rise in scabies cases across the areas it oversees: Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Ceredigion. This increase is contributing to outbreaks in hospitals. The board said the situation will be kept under review, and the ward will reopen when it is safe to do so, in line with infection prevention and control guidance.
Symptoms of scabies
Symptoms of scabies include intense itching and a raised rash across the body, excluding the head and neck. The rash commonly affects skin between the fingers, around the wrists, under arms, and around the waist, groin, and bottom.
