Scabies is spreading more than usual in Estonia. School nurses and family doctors say the disease is serious.
Scabies is caused by a parasite called the itch mite. The disease spreads through close contact with other people or through surfaces.
Symptoms of the disease include itching and red spots. Some think it is an allergy, but in reality, it is scabies.
School nurse Kristel Veidenbaum says attention should be paid to nighttime itching. If it itches at night, it could be scabies.
Other symptoms of the disease are red spots between the fingers and small burrows on the skin.
Medications are available from the pharmacy. Everyone who has been in contact with the disease must receive treatment.
During treatment, it is necessary to stay at home. Laundry should also be washed in hot water, at least 60 degrees.
If you are sick, inform the school or workplace. This will help reduce the spread of the disease.