Scabies outbreak at detention centre causing concern

Two detainees diagnosed with scabies, while others have skin rashes which were scabies. (File photo)

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad, Monday April 2, 2012 – Reports of an outbreak of scabies at the Immigration Detention Centre is causing health officials concern.

And, Minister of Health, Dr. Fuad Khan has urged acting Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Colin Furlonge to investigate the situation immediately.

Dr. Furlonge confirmed that there is a problem at the detention centre, with two detainees being diagnosed with scabies, while others have skin rashes which were scabies.

Noting that the situation appeared to be contained, the acting Chief Medical Officer gave the assurance that the ministry will continue to monitor the situation, and ensure that measures recommended are implemented.

Immigration Detention Centre Manager Winston Lopez, explained that there was a spraying and fumigation exercise conducted at the centre which will be repeated in another three months.

Scabies is an easily spread skin disease caused by a very small species of mite. Scabies is found
worldwide among people of all groups and ages. It is spread by skin-to-skin contact with another
person who has scabies and less often by sharing clothing or bedding. Scabies mites burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs, forming a burrow that looks like a pencil mark. Eggs
mature in 21 days. The itchy rash is an allergic response to the mite. Click here to receive free news bulletins via email from Caribbean360. (View sample)