Increase in scabies in the region

Mélissa Gélinas

Some schools in the Outaouais have been struggling with multiple outbreaks of scabies in recent months. Since it is not a notifiable disease, the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CISSS) de l'Outaouais was unable to specify the number of cases identified in the region.

About Scabies

Scabies is a highly contagious skin infection caused by a microscopic parasite (mite) called Sarcoptes scabiei. It gets under the skin to lay its eggs and deposit its droppings, which leads to rashes accompanied by intense itching. The lesions often take the form of small red pimples. These lesions are usually found between the fingers and toes, inside the wrists and elbows, under the armpits, on the waist, on the genitals, buttocks and nipples. It is also possible that they can be found on the scalp, face, palms of the hands and on the soles of the feet in children under two years of age.

Symptoms

Fever, weight loss, night sweats and severe itching, especially at night, are among the general symptoms of scabies. Note that these symptoms can appear several weeks after contacting the parasite.

Transmission

Highly contagious, scabies is transmitted by direct contact with the skin with an affected person or, more rarely, during the exchange of clothes or personal items. The period of contagiousness is six weeks, from the onset of symptoms until the end of the first treatment. 

It should be noted that Sarcoptes scabiei is only transmissible from human to human. It can also pose a danger to immunosuppressed people, the elderly and young children.

Treatments

In order to eliminate the parasite, a treatment in the form of a cream or lotion based on 5% permethrin should be applied from head to toe, making sure to cover each part of the body. In particular, it is recommended to carry out a second treatment which should be done seven days after the first.

It should be noted that treatment will have to be carried out for all people who have been in close contact with the contaminated person. It is also possible to contact the scabies again several times.

In addition, to relieve itching, oral antihistamines or topical corticosteroids can be used as recommended by a healthcare professional.

On the other hand, the CISSS de l'Outaouais strongly recommends the application of hygiene measures to prevent the spread. These measures include disinfecting all surfaces in the home and cleaning all personal belongings (clothing, towels, bedding and more) with hot water.

Non-washable items must be placed in closed plastic bags for at least 72 hours to completely eliminate parasites.

In case of symptoms or doubts, it is recommended to consult a health professional (doctor, pharmacist or nurse) in order to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and treatment.