An outbreak and treatment of Norwegian scabies occurred in a hospital

Abstract:

ObjectiveTo investigate the causes and treatment measures of an outbreak of  Norwegian scabies occurred  in a hospital.  MethodsIn May 2013, an outbreak  of  Norwegian scabies among health care workers(HCWs) occurred because of the misdiagnosis of a patient with Norwegian scabies, epidemiological investigation was carried out by healthcareassociated infection(HAI) control  department, medical intervention and disinfection and isolation measures were performed. ResultsA total of 27 HCWs and patients’ relatives developed Norwegian scabies. After active medical treatment, patients’ condition improved; all appliances used by patients were cleaned and disinfected after being wrapped and sealed with plastic bags for one week. Epidemic trend of infection was under control and no new case was found. ConclusionWith highly contagious, Norwegian scabies can be spread in local area, it is necessary to improve HCWs’ diagnostic ability to this disease and take effective measures to prevent the epidemic once HAI occur.