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[Scabies epidemic in a sheltered workshop--what should be done?]
1Klinik und Poliklinik für Haut- und Geschlechtskrankheiten, Universität Würzburg. j.mayer@mail.uni-wuerzburg.de
Summary
An outbreak of scabies occurred in a workshop for disabled individuals in Germany. Prompt intervention and cooperative treatment strategies were crucial for managing this contagious skin disease epidemic.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Context:
- Scabies, an infectious parasitic skin disease, presents a growing public health concern with increasing incidence.
- Close physical contact is the primary transmission route, though indirect spread via fomites like bedding is also documented.
- Highly contagious nature facilitates rapid spread in congregate settings, leading to potential epidemic outbreaks.
Purpose:
- To document and analyze a scabies epidemic within a workshop for disabled individuals.
- To outline the cooperative strategies implemented for evaluating contacts and managing the outbreak.
- To present a comprehensive treatment concept for terminating scabies epidemics in similar settings.
Summary:
- An epidemic of scabies was identified in a workshop for disabled individuals in February 1998.
- The outbreak affected numerous individuals within the workshop and associated hostel, with some already receiving scabicide treatment.
- A large contact network exceeding 460 individuals was identified, necessitating a coordinated response.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of prompt recognition and intervention in controlling scabies outbreaks.
- Demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between facility management, healthcare providers, and dermatologists.
- Provides a model for managing and terminating scabies epidemics in institutional settings, preventing further transmission.