Health
Scabies outbreak in UK linked to drug shortages, experts confirm: 'Progressively worse'
U.K. doctors are sounding the alarm about a surge in scabies cases across the country, according to reports.
A shortage of scabies medications — which dates as far back as May 2023 —is thought to be a contributing factor in the outbreak.
The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) confirmed to Fox News Digital on Friday that it’s received reports of scabies cases being on the rise, and that the current shortage of medicines is exacerbating the situation.
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“At the end of November, according to the Royal College of GPs, the rate of scabies was three cases per 100,000 of the population, which is double the seasonal average,” said Paula Geanau, a spokesperson for BAD.
“The situation in the U.K. is constantly changing, so it is difficult to say with certainty,” she added.
U.K. doctors are sounding the alarm about a surge in scabies cases across the country, according to reports. (iStock)
Outbreaks are more common in group living situations, although Geanau emphasized that anyone can get scabies.
“It is not a question of poor hygiene,” she said. “Because of the nature in which it spreads, via skin-to-skin contact, it disproportionately affects people in group living facilities, such as care homes and student accommodations.”
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Scabies is everywhere and is not just limited to the U.K., noted Dr. Susan Massick, a board-certified dermatologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
“There are always cases in the U.S. at any given time,” she told Fox News Digital. “Current cases that arise now in the U.S. are not related to the outbreaks in the U.K.”
What to know about scabies
Scabies is a rash that occurs when a tiny, eight-legged mite called Sarcoptes scabiei burrows into the skin, causing intense itching.
The disease is highly contagious, often spreading quickly through schools, households and nursing homes.
Scabies is a rash that occurs when a tiny, eight-legged mite called Sarcoptes scabiei burrows into the skin, causing intense itching. (iStock)
In addition to severe itching, a primary symptom is tiny blisters of bumps that form thin, wavy tunnels, according to Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms are usually delayed, appearing up to six weeks after exposure for those who have never had the infection.
People can spread scabies even if they don’t have symptoms.
“Scabies is different than bedbugs, but often equally itchy and difficult to eradicate,” Massick said.
“The itching gets progressively worse from week to week as new eggs hatch and the number of mites grows.”
“Scabies is different than bedbugs, but often equally itchy and difficult to eradicate.”
Scabies mites are microscopic and can’t be seen with the human eye, the doctor said — but the skin will react to the bites and become more and more inflamed, extremely itchy and often scab over due to the natural tendency to scratch.
Scabies is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact, Massick said, but it can also easily be transmitted through clothing, furniture and bedding that contain the mites.
The two main treatments for scabies are permethrin 5% cream and malathion liquid, both of which are right now in limited supply in the U.K. (iStock)
“Cases continue to spread beyond the original person infected, and it is difficult to eradicate without appropriate treatment,” she noted.
People living in close quarters without access to routine clothes washers and dryers are most at risk of contracting scabies, she said — “a common scenario is a college dormitory,” Massick said.
To prevent contracting the disease, the doctor recommends avoiding direct contact or sharing of clothing, bedding and close quarters with those infected.
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For those who contract scabies, the mites can’t simply be washed away.
“Showering will not rid you of a scabies infestation — you need treatment,” Massick said. “Due to the life cycle of the scabies mites, with eggs hatching every five to seven days, you need to re-treat yourself one week after your initial treatment to ensure full eradication.”
It is possible to get re-infected even after treatment if you’re exposed again to the mites, the doctor said.
Scabies mites are microscopic and can’t be seen with the human eye, but the skin will react to the bites and become inflamed and itchy. (iStock)
There are multiple topical and oral treatments for scabies.
“Seek treatment if you suspect you have it, have been exposed or are experiencing unrelenting itching with accompanying rash,” Massick advised.
In addition to getting treatment, people should wash clothing, bedding, sheets, towels and pillows in hot water and dry them in a dryer, she said.
“The shortage of treatments for scabies is a major public health concern.”
“Mites can’t live off the human body for more than two or three days, so avoiding potential exposure from items like furniture that can’t be washed or put in a dryer is a possible way to avoid getting infected,” she told Fox News Digital. “Avoid communal areas and surfaces for at least three to five days.”
Geanau agreed that it’s vital to follow treatment protocols precisely.
In addition to getting treatment for scabies, people should wash clothing, bedding, sheets, towels and pillows in hot water and dry them in a dryer, an expert said. (iStock)
“As scabies is highly contagious, and spreads via skin-to-skin contact, if even one person in a group is still infected after completing a treatment plan, they can easily reinfect the rest of the group as well,” she warned.
“Reinfection is a quite common outcome, as treatments have to be followed to the letter, and everyone must be treated simultaneously.”
Drug shortages a factor in outbreak
The two main treatments for scabies are permethrin 5% cream and malathion liquid, both of which are in limited supply in the U.K.
In September 2023, BAD issued a press release urging manufacturers to ramp up production, warning that the shortages “pose a significant threat to public health” in light of the “highly contagious nature” of scabies.
A shortage of scabies medications, which dates as far back as May 2023, is thought to be a contributing factor in the current outbreak. (iStock)
“The shortage of treatments for scabies is a major public health concern,” said professor Mabs Chowdhury, president of BAD, in the release.
“This is a common condition, which is highly contagious,” he went on. “The ease with which it spreads highlights the urgency of maintaining an adequate supply of effective treatments.”
Chowdhury urged manufacturers of permethrin and malathion to do “everything in their power” to increase production.
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“We also call on regulators, such as the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) and the government, to give the necessary support to manufacturers and suppliers to enable them to rapidly resolve the issue.”
BAD has been advised that more supplies of permethrin and malathion will become available early this year, Geanau noted. In the meantime, ivermectin has recently been licensed for the treatment of scabies, which is expected to help.
As scabies is highly contagious, and spreads via skin-to-skin contact, reinfection is common, experts warned. (iStock)
“We must ensure that an adequate supply of effective treatments is maintained,” Geanau added.
When contacted by Fox News Digital, the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry said it cannot comment on the shortage of permethrin and malathion, as it represents only the “newer, branded end of the U.K. medicines market,” which does not include “long-running generic medicines like permethrin and malathion.”
Fox News Digital also reached out to the U.K. Department of Health & Social Care requesting comment on the outbreak and shortages.
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As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.
But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.
Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.
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Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.
Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com
Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)
A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.
Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.
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“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.
Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.
Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.
Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.
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“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.
Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com
Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)
Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.
Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.
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“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”
Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com
Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)
When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.
“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.
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She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.
Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com
A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.
Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)
“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.
“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”
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She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.
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Comedian Amy Schumer, 44, has recently come clean about her struggle with Cushing’s syndrome, leading to a dramatic weight loss.
Schumer’s transformation has sparked conversation online, to which she responded in a now-deleted Instagram post that shut down speculation about cosmetic enhancements.
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” she emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler.
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Schumer doubled down that her weight loss was not about her appearance, but about staying alive.
“Not to look hot, which does feel fun and temporary,” she said. “I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy that can kill you, but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.”
Amy Schumer attends Variety’s 2024 Power of Women: New York event on May 2, 2024, in New York City on the left. On the right, Schumer later poses for a photo posted to Instagram after her weight loss. (Marleen Moise/WireImage; Amy Schumer/Instagram)
“Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight,” she added. “I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro]. Sorry to anyone they let down. I’m pain free. I can [play] tag with my son.”
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The actress also addressed her shifting hormones, saying that she’s “happy to share more if anyone has any questions about how I’m looking or feeling or where I am in my perimenopause process.”
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” Schumer emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler. (Amy Schumer/Instagram)
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
Schumer previously revealed that she had been diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can cause extreme swelling, fatigue and potentially fatal complications.
Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss specialist in New Jersey, provided more details on the condition in an interview with Fox News Digital.
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“Cushing’s syndrome is caused by prolonged, high exposure to cortisol, which is your body’s main stress hormone,” he said. “Usually, the excess cortisol is a result of prolonged steroid use. We see this many times with patients who have some autoimmune disorder.”
Balazs said the “key” to Cushing’s syndrome is not just weight gain, but a “specific redistribution” of fat caused by too much cortisol.
Amy Schumer is photographed during a guest interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Feb. 13, 2024 (left), and later seen walking through midtown New York City on Oct. 28, 2025 (right). (Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images; Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images)
Fat may be driven to the abdomen, chest, upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”) or face, sometimes considered “moon face,” the doctor said.
Cortisol also breaks down protein, which leads to a thinning in the arms and legs. “Weight gain can be tough, involuntary and hard to manage,” Balazs added.
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Cortisol stimulates “hunger centers” in the brain, raises blood sugar and promotes fat storage, especially deep belly fat, according to the doctor.
Cushing’s syndrome can also cause high blood pressure, bone loss and sometimes type 2 diabetes, per Mayo Clinic.
In addition to weight gain in certain areas, other symptoms may include pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts and underarms, as well as acne, slow wound healing, and thin, frail skin that bruises easily.
With Cushing’s syndrome, fat may accumulate in the abdomen, chest, face or upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”). (iStock)
Women with Cushing’s syndrome often experience thick, dark hair on the face and body, as well as irregular periods. Symptoms among men can include a lower sex drive, reduced fertility and erectile dysfunction.
Mayo Clinic listed other potential symptoms, including extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, trouble with concentration and memory, headache, sleeplessness, skin darkening and stunted growth in children.
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Those with symptoms should contact their doctor immediately, especially if they are taking steroids to treat health issues like asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, as these medications can exacerbate the condition.
The Mayo Clinic has reported that the “sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for recovery.”
“I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro],” Schumer stated in a social media post. (George Frey/Bloomberg)
For patients like Schumer, weight loss is typically not the main goal, Balazs noted, but it is a “critical sign” of successful treatment.
“The primary goal is to normalize your high cortisol levels,” he said. “I believe Amy Schumer got treated first for her underlying problem. Once the cortisol is normalized, which is the most important step, there’s a role to use adjunct medications to decrease weight.”
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Among GLP-1s, Mounjaro is an “excellent choice to decrease deep belly fat and increase insulin sensitivity of cells,” Balazs added.
Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.
Fox News Digital reached out to Schumer’s rep requesting comment.
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