Small red spots on your arms or hands might seem minor, but they could signal a bigger problem—scabies. Health experts in the UK are raising alarms as cases of this itchy, contagious condition climb, particularly in crowded environments like schools and universities.
Scabies mites burrow under the skin, causing intense itching and a rash that often starts as tiny red dots. The condition spreads easily through close contact, shared bedding, or clothing, making outbreaks hard to contain. One affected student shared her experience, describing how the red marks on her wrists quickly turned into an unbearable itch that disrupted her sleep.
Doctors emphasize that while scabies isn’t life-threatening, ignoring it can lead to complications like skin infections. Treatment involves prescription creams, but thorough hygiene measures are also critical. Washing clothes and bedding at high temperatures or sealing them away for several days can help eliminate lingering mites.
Professor Kamila Hawthorne urges people not to let embarrassment prevent them from seeking help. “Scabies is more common than people realize,” she says.
“Getting treatment early protects both you and others from unnecessary suffering.”
If you notice unexplained red spots and itching, don’t dismiss them. A simple doctor’s visit can provide relief and stop the spread in its tracks.
