Across the UK, doctors are warning the public to pay attention to a subtle but dangerous skin symptom: small, red itchy spots that often appear on the arms, hands, or torso.
These marks might seem harmless at first — but they could be the beginning of a serious outbreak. Cases of scabies, a highly contagious skin infestation caused by microscopic mites, have surged past 3,600 hospital-confirmed diagnoses this year, with many more believed to be unreported.
“We’re seeing numbers far above the five-year average,” said Professor Kamila Hawthorne of the Royal College of General Practitioners. “And it's climbing fast, especially in northern England.”
Scabies spreads through skin-to-skin contact, making close families, schools, and care homes especially vulnerable. Symptoms typically begin with intense nighttime itching and a red rash. In vulnerable individuals, such as children or the elderly, it can spread to the scalp, palms, and soles.
The more dangerous form — crusted scabies — appears as thick, scaly patches and is far more contagious.
What’s worse? A shortage of treatment medication in the UK is delaying care — and potentially worsening the spread.
Doctors urge early intervention. While scabies isn’t deadly, the long-term impact on skin health and the risk of secondary infections should not be ignored. Social stigma prevents many from seeking help, but experts emphasize: this is a medical condition, not a moral failing.
Protect yourself. Look for the signs. Don’t ignore that itch.