Medieval Skin Disease Returns to Devon Classrooms
A school in Devon has been forced to close its doors following a worrying outbreak of scabies, a skin condition more commonly associated with Victorian times. Health officials have confirmed cases appearing in at least five different schools across the county, raising concerns among parents and educators alike.
South Devon College took decisive action after discovering at least seven students had contracted the highly contagious condition. In an email sent to parents, the college administration stated: 'We have been notified of seven confirmed cases of scabies amongst our student community. These cases have been diagnosed by a health professional.'
What Makes Scabies So Contagious?
The parasitic infestation is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin's surface, creating red, inflamed and crusty patches. Medical experts note that scabies is particularly problematic because it's often misdiagnosed or goes unnoticed during early stages, allowing carriers to spread it unknowingly.
Dr Firas Al-Niaimi, a London-based consultant dermatologist, emphasised the urgency of early detection. 'Scabies is very contagious and spreads very quickly, so it needs to be caught early to limit infections,' he told The Sun. The dermatologist also warned that many patients mistake the condition for eczema and delay seeking medical treatment.
Understanding the Symptoms and Risks
Scabies presents as an intensely itchy rash with red spots appearing across the body, typically excluding the head and neck in most patients. The condition spreads through close skin contact, making school environments particularly vulnerable.
Key characteristics include:
- Intense itching that often worsens at night
- Red spots and burrow tracks on the skin
- Spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact
- Possible asymptomatic transmission
While not considered dangerous, scabies requires medical treatment and won't clear up on its own. Standard treatment involves prescription creams or lotions that kill the mites and their eggs.
Council Response and Parental Concerns
Despite reports of cases in three schools within the Torbay area, local council officials confirmed that no schools in their jurisdiction had closed due to the outbreak. Torbay Council released a statement clarifying their position: 'We are aware of a small number of scabies cases in the area, but scabies is not a condition that needs to be reported to health authorities.'
The council emphasised that individual schools are communicating directly with parents and carers about the situation. They encouraged families with concerns to speak directly with their child's school administration.
The outbreak has prompted health warnings across Devon, with medical professionals urging parents to seek immediate treatment if they suspect their child has symptoms. Early intervention is crucial to prevent further spread of this uncomfortable and persistent skin condition.
