Attention those who are constantly itching! You might have scabies...

While the increase in scabies cases in recent weeks has caused concern, Clinical Microbiology Specialist Dr. Nagihan Demir warned that scabies, which is highly contagious, can lead to various complications if left untreated.

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Attention those who are constantly itching! You might have scabies...

Stating that scabies cases are on the rise both globally and in Turkey, Gaziantep Private Anka Hospital Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialist Dr. Nagihan Demir pointed out that the disease has seen an increase in Turkey over the last 2 years compared to previous years.

Warning that the disease can last for months if not treated, Dr. Demir said, “Scabies is a common contagious disease. Scabies mites, which cannot be seen with the naked eye but can be detected under a microscope, invade human skin and cause the disease. Scabies is usually transmitted through direct and prolonged close contact with an infected person.

It can be transmitted from person to person even with close contact lasting 15-20 minutes. Sharing personal items facilitates the transmission and spread of scabies. It can take 2-6 weeks for symptoms to appear in a person who has contracted scabies. Even during these periods when disease symptoms have not yet begun, the person can transmit scabies to others,” she said.

'TO PROTECT AGAINST THE DISEASE...'

Discussing the symptoms of the disease, Specialist Dr. Nagihan Demir stated, “The most important symptom of scabies is severe nighttime itching. The itching increases as the person gets into bed and warms up, and while it is severe enough to wake the person from sleep, it is milder during the day. Itching is generally seen between the fingers, on the inner surface of the wrists, on the wrists, in the armpits, on the elbows, and in the groin area, although it can be seen all over the body. Severe itching that increases especially at night and the appearance of fluid-filled vesicles on the skin increase the suspicion of scabies. When faced with such a situation, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible,” she said.

'MUST BE WASHED AT AT LEAST 60 DEGREES'

Stating that it is extremely important for people living with a scabies patient to be treated at the same time for the prevention and control of the disease, Dr. Demir said, ”Especially family members must be treated together, regardless of whether they have itching or not. If treatment is not applied simultaneously, the disease will continue to spread from person to person. Clothes, sheets, and towels used by the scabies patient and those living in the same house must be washed at at least 60 degrees and ironed. Bedding should be aired for a few days. Items that cannot be washed should be kept in a sealed bag for an average of three days,” she said.

News Source: 12punto