The scabies spread more and more - so you can protect yourself

More and more scabies cases in Germany - This reduces the risk of infection

In recent months, the number of scabies cases in Germany has increased significantly. The danger of becoming infected with the itchy skin disease is great, especially in kindergartens and schools. Health experts explain how the risk of infection can be reduced.

Infectious skin disease is spreading

Although many people think scabies would be long gone in Germany, there were always times when the itchy skin disease returned. More recently, there have been more cases of scabies infections in schools. And just a few months ago, a whole ward had to be closed in a Bonn clinic because of scabies cases. Recently, the Barmer health insurance company reported that the scabies in Germany is again clearly on the rise.

In Germany, more and more scabies cases are registered. The risk of infection is especially high in day care centers and schools. But you can protect yourself from the itchy skin disease. (Image: Astrid Gast / fotolia.com)

Scabies can be transmitted from person to person

As the Federal Center for Health Education (BZgA) explains on its portal "Infektionsschutz.de", the scabies, medically referred to as scabies, is an infectious skin disease caused by the itch mite of humans.

It can be transmitted from person to person, as well as from animal to human and over clothing or objects.

The disease is usually not dangerous, but it is extremely unpleasant for those affected.

Disease sign of scabies

Burning of the skin and itching, which is particularly pronounced in bed warmth, are often the first signs of scabies, according to BZgA.

"The itching can even spread to skin regions that are not directly from
Itching mites are affected, "write the experts on their portal.

Infested areas are therefore mainly interspaces of fingers and toes, wrists, ankles, armpits, elbows, nipples and genitals.

Especially in infants and toddlers, the hairy head, the face as well as the hands and feet can be affected.

In addition, injured skin can ignite purulent by scratching. Prolonged infestation may develop into a large-area itchy rash with pin-sized blisters, reddened raised nodules or pustules in response to the mite excretions.

Significantly more scabies medications prescribed

An analysis of the Barmer health insurance suggests that the scabies in this country is again clearly on the rise.

Accordingly, the prescription number of important scabies medication among Barmer insured persons increased by 60 percent between 2016 and 2017.

"The doctors again prescribe significantly more scabies drugs, in all regions of Germany. The number of sick people is likely to have risen similarly. " Utta Petzold, dermatologist at the Barmer.

The cash register points out that you should see the doctor quickly at the first signs of scabies such as reddened papules in the genital area, between the fingers or in the armpits and especially nocturnal itching.

This reduces the transmission risk

"Infection with scabies can affect anyone and does not necessarily have anything to do with hygiene. Patients can infect other people through body contact if they do not have any symptoms, "explains Petzold.

The itch mite can spread particularly easily in Kitas. Because itchy mites outside the human body could survive for several days, the expert advises those affected and their contacts to change clothes and bedding daily and wash at least 60 degrees Celsius.

Towels should be renewed directly after use. Non-washable items should be packaged airtight for seven to 14 days. It makes sense to also suck upholstered furniture and mattresses daily with a strong vacuum cleaner.

"You should also avoid body contact with people with scabies and not sleep in the same bed," advises Petzold. (Ad)