![]() While scabies can affect people at all socioeconomic levels, individuals who are young, elderly, immunocompromised or developmentally delayed are at significantly higher risk for scabies and related complications. Scabies is a contagious skin infestation that affects an estimated 300 million people around the world every year. Key Words: Crusted scabies Indigenous communities Infestations Norwegian scabies Poverty Pruritus Clinicians who work with Indigenous communities can improve their ability to diagnose and treat scabies, and should advocate for better living conditions where scabies is prevalent. In Canada and globally, the presence of scabies is usually a symptom of poor living conditions and a sign that basic necessities need improvement. Asymptomatic and symptomatic household members should all be treated at the same time. Topical antiscabies lotions are still the mainstay of treatment, but oral ivermectin has also proven effective under certain circumstances. Apart from a very itchy rash, scabies can lead to secondary bacterial infections and related complications, as well as to stigmatization, depression, insomnia and significant financial costs. Institutional outbreaks of scabies have also been reported. Scabies risk is also higher in young children, the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Scabies disproportionately affects many Indigenous (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) communities where risk factors are present. Lack of local expertise can result in failure to recognize scabies, leading to delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment of cases and contacts. Although it can affect individuals at any socioeconomic level, individuals who live in poverty or in overcrowded conditions are at much higher risk for scabies. It causes significant global morbidity, with an estimated 300 million cases annually. Scabies is a contagious skin infestation caused by a mite. ![]() Anna Banerji Canadian Paediatric Society First Nations, Inuit and Métis Health Committee ![]()
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