Surge in Scabies Cases Puts Chattogram Hospitals on Alert
Chattogram Battles Unusual Rise in Scabies Infections
A concerning rise in scabies infections has been reported across Chattogram and adjacent districts, with hospitals witnessing an unprecedented influx of patients over the past three months. Health experts warn that the outbreak may spiral further if immediate preventative measures are not taken.
Scabies, a highly contagious skin disease caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs, typically spreads through close physical contact. The infection results in severe itching and rashes, often affecting areas such as fingers, wrists, elbows, and the waist.
Medical professionals in Chattogram have confirmed a sharp increase in the number of scabies cases, spanning across both low-income and affluent populations. Speaking to The Daily Star, Dr Abdul Mannan, superintendent of Chattogram General Hospital, said, “In March, we used to get an average of 200 scabies patients daily. The number increased to 300 a day in April, and around 370 in May. In April alone, of the 10,375 patients treated for skin complications, nearly 9,000 had scabies.”
The situation is equally alarming at Chattogram Medical College Hospital. Dr Barnali Barua, assistant professor of dermatology, said they received around 400 scabies patients per day in March. “The number surged to approximately 500 in April and 520 in May,” she told The Daily Star.
“Scabies was earlier prevalent mainly in slum areas and among lower-income groups, but now it is also appearing in affluent households,” Dr Barua noted. “More than 60 percent of patients in my ward are currently suffering from scabies. The disease spreads rapidly in environments where people share living spaces, such as hostels and dormitories.”
She further explained that women are particularly vulnerable due to traditional clothing that increases sweating in hot weather, creating a more favorable environment for the mites. “Scabies and other skin diseases become more common in summer due to excessive sweating. Children are also at high risk of infection through their classmates in schools,” she added.
Dr Iftekher Ahmad, deputy director of the Bangladesh Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, echoed the need for immediate public health interventions. “The disease has become notably prevalent in recent times. We’re seeing more patients now than before,” he said in an interview with The Daily Star. “A comprehensive study should be conducted to identify the causes behind this outbreak.”
Health professionals unanimously emphasized the importance of maintaining personal hygiene as the primary defense against scabies. “If one member of a household is infected, the entire family should take treatment simultaneously to prevent recurrence,” advised Dr Barua.
As Chattogram continues to battle this sudden spike, public awareness campaigns and hygiene education are being urged by the medical community to contain the spread and protect vulnerable populations from further exposure.
