Why Scabies Cases Are Rising—and Why People Avoid Treatment
Over 3,600 scabies cases have been recorded in UK hospitals, with the north of England seeing a major spike. Professor Kamila Hawthorne from the RCGP said GP diagnoses are “above the five-year average and rising.”
Many people delay care due to the “social stigma” linked to scabies, which worsens the spread. “While not a serious condition, scabies can be very itchy and irritating,” Prof Hawthorne explained. “If not properly treated, it can increase the risk of complications.”
A treatment shortage is also fueling the outbreak, making early diagnosis and medical help even more critical.
