In the past week alone, Google searches for ‘early signs of scabies’ spiked by 370% after reports of scabies cases surging across the UK and Europe.*
The Royal College of General Practitioners’ Research and Surveillance Centre reports that in the past week alone, 724 scabies cases have identified across the UK.*
As online interest continues to surge, Dr Nikita Hurter, Head of Proposition, at AXA Health insurance, has urged the nation to recognise the main signs and symptoms of scabies. 

GP reveals scabies is spread through close contact

With UK searches for ‘what is scabies’ surging by 191% in the past month*, Dr Hurter reveals that scabies can easily be passed from person to person.

Dr Hurter comments, “Caused by the mite Sarcoptes Scabiei, scabies is a highly contagious skin condition that causes small bumps, severe itching and discomfort to the skin.*

Spread through close contact and prolonged skin-to-skin contact, scabies can easily pass between households and people who have close physical contact.

Individuals who live in shared living environments, such as nursing homes or university accommodation can be more susceptible to scabies, as the mites can spread quickly among people in close quarters.”

Three symptoms of scabies the nation should be aware of

With reports of scabies cases surging across the UK and Europe, Dr Hurter has uncovered the main symptoms of scabies that the nation should be aware of.
Dr Hurter reveals, “Symptoms of scabies can take up to eight weeks to appear after initial exposure, so recognising the early signs and symptoms is crucial to minimise the spread.”

1.    Intense itching
“Usually occurring within two weeks of initial exposure, intense itching of the skin is usually the first symptom of scabies to appear. The itching, typically more intense in the evening, is caused by the body’s allergic reaction to the mites, their eggs, and waste products beneath the skin.”

2.    Red bumps, spots or a raised rash 
“Red bumps, spots, or a raised rash to the skin between the fingers, wrists, waistline and groin are one of the most identifiable signs of scabies. The affected areas may become inflamed or sore, particularly if scratched repeatedly, which can also increase the risk of secondary skin infection.”

3.    Raised wavy lines on the skin
“Raised, wavy lines appear on the skin within two to six weeks after initial exposure. Although subtle, these lines are a distinctive sign of scabies infestation.”

Dr Hurter states, “Being aware of the symptoms of scabies is one of the best ways to prevent the spread. Early recognition and prompt treatment not only relieve discomfort but also help protect others from infection.”

Dr Hurter’s expert tips for preventing the spread of scabies

Dr Hurter uncovers five ways to prevent the spread of scabies, as cases soar.

1.    Avoid physical contact
 “Anyone suspected of having scabies should avoid close physical contact with others. This includes hugging, hand-holding and sexual contact.”

2.    Avoid sharing personal items 
“As scabies is spread through close contact, individuals who are suspected of having scabies should avoid using shared personal items such as towels, clothing and bedding. Scabies mites can live up to 36 to 72 hours on fabrics without human contact, so it’s essential to avoid sharing close-contact items.”

3.    Wash bedding, towels and clothing on hot washes 
“Bedding, towels, and clothes used by individuals with scabies must be washed on a hot cycle at 60°C or higher and properly dried. Anything that is not washable should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours, as scabies mites cannot live without human touch.”

4.    Vacuum furniture and floor
“Soft furnishings such as sofas, mattresses, carpets and rugs should be thoroughly vacuumed, paying particular attention to areas where prolonged contact occurs. While scabies is most commonly spread through direct contact, vacuuming helps reduce the risk of mites lingering in the home environment.”

5.    Treat the whole household at the same time
 “It’s worth treating everyone in the household or close sexual partners at the same time, regardless of whether or not they have symptoms, to prevent untreated people re-infected those who are treated”

Dr Hurter concludes, “Anyone who has persistent itching, a rash, or unexplained skin irritation should seek medical advice. Early identification and treatment are crucial for preventing further spread and treating discomfort.”