Four hospitals in the NSW Illawarra region have been hit by a scabies outbreak, with NSW health urging residents to monitor for symptoms.
The first case was confirmed at Wollongong Hospital in late July, health officials said.
However, the outbreak has since spread to some 11 patients and 23 staff across Wollongong, Coledale, Shellharbour and Bulli hospitals.
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Scabies is an infectious skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, however, it is treatable.
“While it can be effectively managed in households, much like headlice, it can be difficult to contain, especially in a hospital setting where patients are grouped together and there is a high transit level of staff between wards,” Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District ( ISLHD) chief executive Margot Mains said.
“Because scabies has an incubation period of up to six to eight weeks, is easily transmitted and can have minimal symptoms initially, there may be undetected cases within our facilities and community.
“To prevent the risk of further transmission, the district will provide preventative treatment for all current inpatients and staff across all our hospital sites and services.”
While the condition can be treated, it can be “unpleasant” for those who are infected, SLHD executive director Medical Services Dr Karen Murphy said.
Patients who were discharged from hospital since mid-May are being urged to watch for symptoms and contact their GP should they develop an itchy rash.
Symptoms:
- Rashes, commonly on your wrists, between your fingers and toes, in your armpits, your elbows, your groin, the creases of your bottom
- Itching
- Sores
- Thick crusts on the skin
Those concerned about the scabies outbreak should contact the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District.