A Plymouth secondary school is currently dealing with an outbreak of scabies and has outlined symptoms to look out for.
Plympton Academy, on Moorland Road, says there are a “small number of students” who have been diagnosed with scabies. There are also unconfirmed cases which have been reported.
Principal Lisa Boorman sent a letter to parents to inform them of the situation, emphasising that scabies “is not caused by poor hygiene”. The school, which is part of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, says it is following all procedures and advice given from the local health protection team and are “confident in the measures we have put in place”.
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Mrs Boorman’s letter reads: “I am writing to inform you that a small number of students who attend the academy have been both diagnosed with scabies, and also unconfirmed cases reported. The local health protection team [HPT] has been informed and has advised on the control measures for our academy to take.”
The letter goes on to explain that scabies is a skin infection caused by tiny mites that burrow in the skin. It added that if you think your child might have scabies, you should visit your local pharmacist, who can recommend a cream or lotion that you apply over your whole body.
It states everyone at home needs to be treated at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms. It also advises to wash all bedding and clothing in the house at 50C or higher on the first day of treatment. Clothing that cannot be washed should be sealed away for three days, so the mites can die. The letter also advises to contact your GP or NHS 111 if the skin is still itching four weeks after treatment.
Mrs Boorman adds: “Scabies is not caused by poor hygiene. We do encourage anyone who has a confirmed case to complete all recommended treatment doses. This could require a series of treatments spread out over time. Older children can attend school with the advice to avoid close skin contact with others until the first treatment is completed.
“I would like to take this opportunity to reassure you that we are continually doing everything within our power to keep your child and the community safe and we are confident that we have taken all necessary health and safety action to ensure Plympton Academy is a safe learning environment.”
Mrs Boorman thanked parents and students for their “continued support”. Anyone with questions is urged to contact the school via phone or email.
A spokesperson from the academy added: “The health and safety of our pupils is our top priority. That is why we have proactively written to our parents and carers as well as spoken with our pupils to share NHS guidelines and ensure our community is well informed and can quickly and effectively identify and treat the condition.
“As an academy, we have followed all procedures and advice from The Local Health Protection Team and are confident in the measures we have put in place. We will continue to work with and support the Director of Public Health for Plymouth and associated bodies.”
Scabies
The NHS says scabies is common and anyone can get it. It should be treated quickly to stop it spreading.
The symptoms of scabies are:
- intense itching, especially at night
- a raised rash or spots
The spots may look red. They are more difficult to see on dark skin, but you should be able to feel them. The scabies rash usually spreads across the whole body, apart from the head.
However, older people, young children and those with a weakened immune system may develop a rash on their head and neck. You can read more on the NHS website here.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
