GPs dealing with ‘increasing’ number of scabies cases, RCGP warns

The RCGP has warned of an “increase” in cases of scabies in GP practices as the number of cases rose above the average over the past five years.

The college’s surveillance data showed that throughout this year the incidence of scabies in England has remained consistently above the five-year average and above the seasonal average, with a noticeable increase in recent months.

The most recent data, covering the week commencing October 14, showed there were 3.1 cases per 100,000 people of all ages, while the five-year average never rose above two cases per 100,000.

RCGP chair Professor Camila Hawthorne warned that the incidence of scabies in general practice was “increasing” but admitted “cases are still rare”.

Scabies can be treated with a medicated cream or lotion to kill the mites.such as permethrin cream, and may require more than one course of treatment and treatment for the entire family, including those who do not have symptoms.

Professor Hawthorne said if symptoms persist after treatment, the patient should contact their GP.

“We recognize that symptoms can impact a patient’s quality of life, so we will do everything we can to ensure they receive prompt and effective treatment,” she added.

She pointed to a particular spike in cases in the north of the country reported earlier this year by dermatologists and the RCGP surveillance centre.

Professor Hawthorne said if scabies is “not treated properly” it can spread and increase the risk of “complications such as secondary skin infections”.

She said: “Although scabies is not a serious condition, it can cause severe itching and irritation and can be easily contracted through close physical contact.

“If not treated properly, it can spread and increase the patient’s risk of complications, such as secondary skin infections, or worsen existing skin conditions.

“We understand that patients may be afraid to seek treatment given the social stigma that surrounds the condition, but it is important that they do not ignore their symptoms as this could lead to their condition worsening and the risk of passing the condition on to others, especially if they live in close proximity to others, such as on a university campus.”

Last year the British Association of Dermatologists warned that constant shortage of treatments for scabies posed a “significant threat” to public health.

And a Community Pharmacy England report later said ongoing drug shortages were causing additional pressure, including on GPs who had to advise on alternatives.

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