Pupils ‘develop skin rashes’ as Victorian disease spreads in school amid scabies warning

Pupils at a school in Cornwall have been reported to be developing skin rashes, sparking concerns of a Victorian-era disease spreading among students. Truro and Penwith College issued a notice to parents, alerting them to the presence of the highly contagious infection known as scabies. The college confirmed that some students had been diagnosed with scabies after reporting skin rashes. According to a letter seen by Cornwall Live, the college advised parents to be vigilant for symptoms such as an itchy rash that worsens at night or when warm. They urged parents to seek medical advice if their child displays such symptoms and mentioned that scabies can take up to eight weeks to manifest fully.

Scabies is caused by tiny mites and is spread through close skin contact. The rash typically affects various parts of the body, excluding the head and neck, with common areas being between fingers, wrists, underarms, and around the waist and groin. Cases of scabies have been on the rise in England, with hospital diagnoses reaching 3,689 in the year leading up to April, compared to 2,128 in the previous year. Prof Kamila Hawthorne noted that while scabies isn’t usually widespread, current figures exceed the five-year average and are increasing.

Parents were advised to treat their children promptly if diagnosed with scabies and to ensure all household members receive treatment simultaneously to prevent further spread. The community was encouraged to be cautious and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. The school’s proactive approach in informing parents and providing guidance on managing scabies is crucial in containing and preventing further outbreaks within the educational setting.

In light of the recent spike in scabies cases, it’s important for schools and communities to stay vigilant and informed about preventive measures and early detection. Regular communication between parents, schools, and healthcare providers is key to addressing health concerns promptly and effectively.

Insights: It is essential for educational institutions to maintain open communication with parents regarding health issues affecting students. By promptly notifying parents of potential health concerns such as the spread of scabies, schools can work together with families to mitigate risks and ensure a safe learning environment for all students. Awareness and proactive measures play a vital role in preventing the spread of contagious diseases within school settings.