Look out for scabies

The following statement may be attributed to Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service Public Health Clinical Nurse Consultant Mr Darien Payne.

Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service staff are working closely with communities across Cape York to help stop the spread of scabies through treatment, prevention, and education.

We are noting an increase in cases across the region.

Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by mites which burrow into the skin and lay eggs.

Burrows are often difficult to see, but can most often be seen between the fingers, around the waist, in the creases of the wrists and elbows, and on the palms and soles of the feet.

We know that scabies spreads very easily between people so it’s important to avoid skin-to-skin contact with others, and not share any clothing or bedding.

Washing your clothes and bedding on a hot cycle will help kill any mites.

Putting your mattresses and pillows out in the sun for two or three hours is also recommended.

If not treated, scabies can cause irritation, sores may become infected, and it is still contagious to others. The mite does not transmit any infectious disease.

If any Cape York community residents have itchy skin or sores, they should visit their local health facility for treatment.

The good news is that scabies is treatable, and we have staff ready to help anyone who has scabies.

Treatment typically includes an oral medication or topical cream that we can provide to those who need it. Any instructions for treatment need to be followed carefully.

To help stop the spread, it’s recommended that everyone in your house is also treated with the cream or oral medication, even if they don’t have sores or rashes.

We’re committed to working with all our communities to help stop the spread and would like to thank everyone for following the health advice.

Learn more about scabies on the Queensland Government website.