[Problems related to control of epidemic and persistent outbreaks of scabies]

Experience with control of epidemic and persistent outbreaks of scabies in collectives is presented. Both diagnosis and patient's compliance may pose problems. When diagnosing scabies, not only clinical symptoms but also the dynamics of the spread among persons in collective facilities such as social care and psychiatric in-patient centres should be taken into account and efficacy of the antiscabies medication should be followed up. If diagnosis of scabies is confirmed, it is crucial to prescribe an effective antiscabies medication and to ensure the patient's compliance with treatment, including thorough washing of the body each time before application of the medication, throughout the whole treatment period instead of treating only the symptoms of secondary eczema.