A highly contagious form of scabies, known as crusted scabies (scabiës crustosa), has been identified in a patient at Flevoziekenhuis hospital in Almere, Netherlands. The case, detected earlier this week on the oncology/hematology ward, prompted preventative measures to limit potential spread, though officials state there is currently no risk to other patients or visitors. , hospital authorities confirmed the diagnosis.
Understanding Scabies and Crusted Scabies
Scabies is a common skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. These microscopic mites burrow into the skin, where they live and lay eggs, leading to intense itching and a characteristic rash. The condition is typically spread through prolonged, direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
However, crusted scabies is a much more severe and contagious form of the infestation. Also known as Norwegian scabies, crusted scabies develops when mites burrow under the skin and form thick, crusty lesions filled with a large number of mites, and eggs. This significantly increases the risk of transmission, as the infection can spread through brief contact, or by sharing contaminated clothing or bedding.
According to the Netherlands’ National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), individuals with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible to developing crusted scabies. These individuals carry a significantly higher number of mites, making them exceptionally contagious.
Current Situation at Flevoziekenhuis
The patient diagnosed with crusted scabies at Flevoziekenhuis is currently isolated and receiving specialized care. The hospital is proactively contacting patients and staff who may have been exposed to the infection, informing them via letter or phone about potential preventative treatment options. The affected patient was being treated on the oncology/hematology ward.
Hospital officials have emphasized that, at present, there is no risk to other patients or visitors. “They can safely come to the hospital,” a hospital spokesperson stated. Preventative measures are underway to contain the situation and prevent further spread.
How Scabies Spreads and Symptoms to Watch For
Scabies is transmitted through direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact. Brief contact, as can occur in passing, is less likely to result in transmission, but crusted scabies presents a higher risk due to the sheer number of mites present. The infection can also spread through contact with contaminated items such as clothing, bedding, and towels, though this is less common.
The primary symptom of scabies is intense itching, which is often worse at night. A characteristic rash develops, typically appearing as small, raised bumps or blisters. These bumps may form lines reflecting where the mites have burrowed under the skin. With crusted scabies, the rash appears as thick, scaly crusts, often on the hands, feet, elbows, and knees. These crusts contain a massive number of mites and are highly contagious.
Preventative Measures and Treatment
Flevoziekenhuis is contacting individuals who may have been exposed to the patient, advising them to consider preventative treatment. While specific treatment recommendations are made on a case-by-case basis by healthcare professionals, treatment typically involves topical creams or lotions containing permethrin or ivermectin. In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed.
The hospital stressed that the situation is being managed according to national guidelines. Preventative measures include thorough cleaning and disinfection of the affected area, as well as careful monitoring of patients and staff for any signs of infection.
Growing Concerns About Scabies Rates in the Netherlands
The recent case at Flevoziekenhuis comes amid growing concerns about increasing rates of scabies in the Netherlands, particularly within healthcare settings. While this specific outbreak is contained to a single case at this time, public health officials are monitoring the situation closely. The increased contagiousness of crusted scabies underscores the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent further spread.
It’s important to remember that scabies is treatable, and with appropriate measures, outbreaks can be effectively controlled. Individuals experiencing symptoms of scabies should consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
