Doctors report rise in cases of 'highly contagious' skin condition - symptoms to look out for

A highly contagious skin condition has been on the rise in the UK, GPs have warned. Professor Kamila Hawthorne, the chair of the Royal College of GPs, said that cases of scabies have been growing since July - and particularly in the north of England -

Scabies is an itchy rash cased by mites. Spread by close skin contact, it's important for cases to be treated quickly to stop them from spreading. The increase in cases comes amid a medication shortage, with The British Association of Dermatologists urging manufacturers to increase production since September.

Professor Hawthorne told the Guardian that although scabies isn't a serious condition, it can make other skin problems - like eczema - worse. “It can also affect a patient’s quality of life, so quick treatment is important,” she added.

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She explained that GPs have seen 'growing rates' of scabies presentations since July, 'at a consistently higher level than the five-year average and the seasonal norm.' She added: "This has been particularly pronounced in the north of England. At the end of November, the rate of scabies was three cases per 100,000 of the population which is double the seasonal average.”

She continued: “The treatment for scabies is a topical cream or lotion that can be purchased in pharmacies, or by prescription in general practice. However, there have been reports of shortages in the two most commonly used medications, permethrin cream and malathion lotion. When any prescribed medication is unavailable, or in short supply, it is worrying for GPs, pharmacists and patients alike.

“GPs and pharmacists are already under enormous pressures to provide care for their