Highly Contagious Scabies Case Reported at Almere Hospital

A case of crusted scabies, a highly contagious and severe form of the skin infestation, has been identified at Flevoziekenhuis hospital in Almere, Netherlands. The patient, diagnosed earlier this week on the oncology/hematology ward, is currently isolated, and preventative measures are underway to limit potential spread. Hospital officials emphasize there is no risk to other patients or visitors.

What is Scabies?

Scabies is a skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, a tiny parasite that burrows into the skin. The primary symptom is intense itching, often worse at night. While typically spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, crusted scabies – also known as Norwegian scabies – is significantly more infectious. Thuisarts.nl provides further information on scabies.

Crusted Scabies: A More Contagious Form

Crusted scabies develops when mites burrow under the skin and form thick crusts containing a large number of mites and eggs. This increases the risk of transmission through brief contact, shared clothing, or bedding. According to the Flevoziekenhuis, this form of scabies can be transmitted through short-term care contact, staying in the same room, or contact with the patient’s linens or clothing. Flevoziekenhuis News

Preventative Measures and Contact Tracing

To prevent further spread, Flevoziekenhuis has implemented strict isolation measures in accordance with national guidelines. The hospital is proactively contacting patients and staff who may have been exposed, either by letter or phone, advising them to consider preventative treatment. NL Times

No Risk to Visitors and Other Patients

Hospital officials have stressed that there is no risk to other patients or visitors. “They can safely approach to the hospital,” the hospital stated. NL Times

Symptoms of Scabies

The primary symptom of scabies is intense itching. Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by the scabies mite, a parasite not visible to the naked eye. While the condition can be remarkably annoying, it is treatable with appropriate medication and hygiene measures. Flevoziekenhuis News

Key Takeaways

• A case of highly contagious crusted scabies has been identified at Flevoziekenhuis in Almere.
• The affected patient is isolated, and preventative measures are in place.
• There is currently no risk to other patients or visitors.
• Scabies is a treatable skin condition, but crusted scabies is more easily transmitted.

The Flevoziekenhuis is managing the situation according to national guidelines, and further updates will be provided as needed.