Epidemiologic characteristics of scabies in the Israel Defense Force

Scabies is not a notifiable disease in most countries. As a result the data on its epidemiologic characteristics are limited. In the Israel Defense Force, compulsory reporting of individual cases has been required for years, and in this study the epidemiology of the disease is examined for the years 1968-1988. A moderate epidemic occurred between 1969 and 1973, and was followed by a return to the previous low incidence. In 1982 a massive outbreak began, and peaked from 1985-1986. From 1987 to 1988, the incidence of infestation has markedly declined. A seasonal pattern of morbidity was evident during epidemic periods only; maximum incidence occurred during the winter months. These data are compared with those described in other countries and provide a more complete picture of the epidemiology of scabies based on individually reported cases.