A highly contagious skin condition has been identified at a secondary school in the United Kingdom.

Camborne Science & International Academy (CSIA) in Camborne, Cornwall, has confirmed an outbreak of scabies, a pruritic skin rash caused by tiny mites that tunnel under the skin. This marks the second instance of scabies at a school in Cornwall within a span of less than three weeks, following cases at Newlyn School near Penzance, as reported by Cornwall Live. As per the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), an outbreak of scabies is officially recognized when two or more connected cases occur within an eight-week timeframe.

A representative from CSIA stated that there were “two isolated incidents of scabies” at the school. Public Health England (PHE) was notified and assured that there is no need for alarm, as there is no indication of a broader issue within the school.

CSIA has confirmed that the two affected students have fully recovered and returned to school. The school also mentioned that there have been no additional outbreaks at CSIA or any other schools in the Athena Learning Trust. Both staff and parents have been briefed with advice from Public Health England (PHE) to remain vigilant for symptoms.

The spokesperson emphasized that Public Health England has affirmed that there are no ongoing concerns and no further actions are necessary beyond standard precautions. CSIA continues to adhere to all recommended protocols to safeguard the well-being of students and staff.

A UKHSA representative added that although scabies can be uncomfortable, it is not required to be reported as an infection. However, they are available to provide guidance to schools in collaboration with local public health authorities.

Recent data from a UKHSA report shows a rise in scabies cases nationwide. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a 44% increase in diagnoses, from 3,393 to 4,872 cases, following the resumption of normal social activities post the Covid-19 pandemic.

Symptoms of scabies include severe itching, particularly at night, along with a raised, red rash or bumps. The condition, first documented by Roman author Aulus Cornelius Celsus in 25 AD, has been increasingly prevalent in the UK and Europe in recent times.

Dr. Chaam Klinger, a Health Protection consultant at UKHSA South West, explained that scabies spreads through close skin contact and can affect anyone, irrespective of hygiene practices. While not typically severe, scabies requires treatment as it is contagious. Individuals suspecting scabies are advised to consult a pharmacist for appropriate measures.

Precautionary steps to prevent scabies from spreading during treatment include washing all bedding and clothing at 60°C or higher on the first day of treatment and storing unwashable clothing in a sealed bag for three days to eliminate mites. It is advised not to share bedding, clothing, or towels with an infected individual and to avoid close physical contact until completing the full treatment course.

For detailed information on scabies treatment and prevention, individuals can refer to the NHS portal at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scabies/.