Outbreak of Scabies Confirmed at Devon College Amid Rising UK Cases

A severe outbreak of scabies has been confirmed at South Devon College in Paignton, with the institution reporting seven confirmed cases among its students. An email sent to parents and guardians highlighted the situation, indicating that the highly contagious condition had infiltrated the student community.

Scabies is caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, resulting in an intensely itchy rash that can appear on various parts of the body, including between fingers, on wrists, and around the elbows and knees. The rash can lead to significant discomfort, particularly at night, and may spread to other areas such as the armpits and groin.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), symptoms can persist for weeks or even months and are often mistaken for other skin conditions, hindering prompt treatment. The agency stated, “When a person has symptoms, they may last for weeks or months, can be hard to recognize and are often mistakenly attributed to other skin conditions, leading to avoidable transmission.”

The recent spike in scabies cases is not isolated to Devon. Reports indicate an increase in instances across the UK, particularly in London and the North of England, with outbreaks noted in care homes and university accommodations. A similar outbreak was also reported in a college in Cornwall.

Dr. Donald Grant, a GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, discussed potential reasons behind the rise in cases. He noted, “This time of year is ideal for scabies to quickly spread throughout communities, with children returning to school and university starting, meaning close contact in shared spaces is common.”

Compounding the issue is the fact that scabies is frequently misidentified as other skin conditions, such as eczema or allergic reactions. This misdiagnosis can delay appropriate treatment, increasing the likelihood of further transmission within households.

In response to the growing number of cases, the UKHSA has urged health professionals to treat scabies immediately, rather than waiting for mass treatment campaigns. In April 2025, the agency added oral ivermectin to its list of licensed treatment options, emphasizing the importance of minimizing symptoms and reducing the risk of complications and further transmission.

There is a common misconception that scabies is solely linked to poor hygiene; however, anyone can contract the condition. While it is typically not serious, treatment is essential due to its high transmissibility. The rash associated with scabies may not appear until up to eight weeks after infection.

Individuals suspecting they have scabies should consult a pharmacist. It is crucial that everyone in the household is treated simultaneously, even if they do not exhibit symptoms. Those who have had sexual contact with an infected person within the past eight weeks should also seek treatment. Parents are advised to consult a GP for children under two years of age.

As the UK grapples with this resurgence of scabies, awareness and prompt action are essential in controlling the outbreak and preventing further spread within communities.