Highly contagious scabies case reported at Almere hospital; Preventive measures underway
A patient at the Flevoziekenhuis in Almere has been diagnosed with a highly contagious form of scabies, known as scabiës crustosa. The patient is isolated and receiving care separately. No other cases have been reported so far.
Scabies is caused by tiny mites that cannot be seen with the naked eye. According to NOS, the infection can be passed through brief skin-to-skin contact or by using contaminated clothing or bedding.
Scabiës crustosa produces crusted lesions on the body filled with mites. Detached skin flakes may also contain mites, making it highly contagious. The primary symptom is intense itching.
The hospital is contacting patients and staff who may have been exposed, either by letter or phone, advising them to consider preventive treatment. Flevoziekenhuis officials stressed that there is no risk to other patients or visitors. “They can safely come to the hospital,” the hospital said.
