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Scabies outbreaks in residential care homes: factors associated with late recognition, burden and impact. A mixed methods study in England
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-08, 18:15 authored by K A Hewitt, A Nalabanda, Jackie CassellScabies is an important public health problem in residential care homes. Delayed diagnosis contributes to outbreaks, which may be prolonged and difficult to control. We investigated factors influencing outbreak recognition, diagnosis and treatment, and staff experiences of outbreak control, identifying areas for intervention. We carried out a semi-structured survey of managers, affected residents and staff of seven care homes reporting suspected scabies outbreaks in southern England over a 6-month period. Attack rates ranged from 2% to 50%, and most cases had dementia (37/39, 95%). Cases were diagnosed clinically by GPs (59%) or home staff (41%), none by dermatologists. Most outbreaks were attributable to avoidably late diagnosis of the index case. Participants reported considerable challenges in managing scabies outbreaks, including late diagnosis and recognition of outbreaks; logistically difficult mass treatment; distressing treatment processes and high costs. This study demonstrates the need for improved support for care homes in detecting and managing these outbreaks
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Published version
Journal
Epidemiology and InfectionISSN
0950-2688Publisher
Cambridge University PressExternal DOI
Issue
7Volume
143Page range
1542-1551Department affiliated with
- Primary Care and Public Health Publications
Full text available
- No
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2014-09-09First Open Access (FOA) Date
2015-09-09First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2014-09-09Usage metrics
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