Morriston Hospital Introduces Visiting Restrictions After Confirming Scabies Cases
Health officials have confirmed a small number of scabies cases at Morriston Hospital in Swansea, prompting the introduction of visitor restrictions to manage the parasite’s spread.
The Swansea Bay University Health Board stated that affected patients, staff, and relatives have received appropriate guidance and treatment. Families have also been notified of the situation at the south Wales facility. While visitor limits remain active at the affected site, the health board expressed gratitude to relatives for their understanding during the response. The spokesman added: Families have been informed and appropriate treatment or guidance has been provided to patients, staff, and relatives.
Furthermore, the board stated: Some visiting restrictions are in place, and we are grateful to relatives for their understanding.
Authorities also advised: If anyone has concerns that they might have scabies, they can get advice from their local pharmacy or GP.
Outbreak Context Across Welsh Hospitals
This incident follows a separate cluster recorded last month at Prince Philip Hospital in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire. Additionally, Hywel Dda Health Board confirmed a scabies outbreak less than a fortnight prior on the Cadog and Dewi Wards at Glangwili General Hospital in Carmarthen, which forced temporary closures to new admissions and visitors. On October 20, the health board stated: As a precaution, the wards are temporarily closed to new admissions and visitors from today, Tuesday 20 October.
The health board also noted that it is following national guidance and has taken additional steps to reduce the risk of infection spreading. Healthcare and community settings across the Hywel Dda area are currently managing a number of cases.
Medical guidance indicates that scabies can produce blotchy red, crusty, or flaky rashes on areas including elbows, knees, feet, hands, and skin between the fingers and wrist. People diagnosed with scabies should begin treatment as soon as possible. Authorities advise anyone who suspects they might have the condition to seek guidance from a local GP or pharmacy as soon as possible to begin treatment.