The UK is currently experiencing a surge in scabies cases, prompting health officials to issue warnings about this highly contagious skin condition. Scabies is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, leading to an allergic reaction characterized by red bumps and intense itching, often worse at night. Commonly affected areas include wrists, fingers, elbows, and the waist.

Doctors stress the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, as scabies symptoms can resemble other skin issues. Untreated, it can spread rapidly among household members and shared living environments, and scratching can cause secondary skin infections. Treatment involves applying medicated creams or lotions over the entire body, even on unaffected skin, and requires simultaneous treatment of close contacts to prevent reinfection.

Health officials point to delayed treatment—often due to social stigma or confusion about symptoms—as a major factor in the outbreak. The British Association of Dermatologists encourages removing shame around the condition and seeking medical help promptly.

Alongside medication, proper hygiene is crucial: clothes, bedding, and towels used by an infected person should be washed in hot water and dried on high heat. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in plastic bags for at least 72 hours to kill mites.

With prompt treatment, open communication, and good hygiene practices, the current rise in scabies cases can be contained, helping to protect individuals and communities from further spread.