Latest news with #Sarcoptesscabiei
Hindustan Times
3 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Dermatologist shares tips for treating contagious skin issues during monsoon: ‘Avoid sharing personal items like comb'
The arrival of the monsoon season often brings with it numerous diseases like diarrhoea, typhoid, viral fever, malaria, cholera, dengue, chikungunya, gut health issues, and more health issues. However, one shouldn't ignore the skin issues that also come along with the rainy season. The combination of humidity, moisture, and heat can become the perfect breeding ground for skin issues. Dr Dhekne stressed that maintaining public cleanliness helps stop the spread of scabies and ringworm. (Shutterstock) In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Asmita Dhekne Chebbi, MBBS, MD Dermatology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Bangalore, talked about ringworm and scabies, the most common monsoon skin diseases to look out for. Common symptoms and causes of ringworm and scabies Ringworm is a rash caused by a fungal infection. Per Dr Dhekne, it is usually itchy and forms in a circular rash with clearer skin. Meanwhile, scabies, she says, is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which produces a painful, itching rash that interferes with an individual's sleep. While ringworm commonly affects the arms, neck, groin, and scalp area, the highly contagious scabies spreads through clothing, towels, and bedsheets. Talking about the symptoms, Dr Dhekne elaborated: 'A few of the signs of ringworm include itchiness, hair loss and overlapping rings of blisters. As for the symptoms of scabies, one infected with it would experience severe itching and rashes on the skin, characterised by red bumps and blisters.' Preventive measures and the importance of timely medical attention Dr Dhekne stressed that maintaining public cleanliness helps stop the spread of scabies and ringworm. Additionally, avoiding contact and being careful while going out in public places also reduces the risk. 'These measures will ensure health and safety for all by eliminating risks and promoting overall well-being. Avoid sharing personal items like towels and combs, too, because they help maintain an individual's cleanliness and prevent infection from spreading further,' Dr Dhekne added. Lastly, the dermatologist highlighted that monsoon season skin infections are preventable, but are widespread. 'To promote ethical usage of over-the-counter medicines, it's important to discourage their use inappropriately without professional counsel. It is necessary that everyone takes care of their cleanliness and seeks an early checkup. A timely visit to a dermatologist will help prevent infection and will lead to an early recovery,' Dr Dhekne advised. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time Business News
19-07-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Scabies vs Filariasis: What's the Difference?
When it comes to parasitic infections, scabies and filariasis are two health conditions that often cause confusion due to their similar geographical prevalence and skin-related symptoms. However, these diseases are fundamentally different in terms of their causes, modes of transmission, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding the difference between scabies and filariasis is vital for early diagnosis, proper treatment, and effective prevention, especially in tropical and subtropical regions where these infections are more common. Scabies is a highly contagious skin infestation caused by a microscopic mite called Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis . These mites burrow into the skin, lay eggs, and cause intense itching, especially at night. Scabies affects people of all ages and spreads through close physical contact, including skin-to-skin touch and, in some cases, sharing personal belongings. Scabies is caused by the eight-legged mite Sarcoptes scabiei . Once the mite burrows into the skin, the body reacts to its presence and waste with an allergic response, resulting in itching and rashes. Intense itching, especially at night Small red bumps or blisters on the skin Thin, irregular burrow tracks made up of tiny blisters or bumps Commonly affected areas: between fingers, wrists, elbows, waist, buttocks, and certain folds of the body Crowded living conditions Nursing homes and long-term care facilities Poor hygiene Weakened immune systems Scabies is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and review of symptoms. In some cases, skin scrapings are taken and examined under a microscope to detect the presence of mites or eggs. Treatment involves topical or oral medications to kill the mites: Topical creams like permethrin 5% are first-line treatment. Oral ivermectin (e.g., Ivercor 12 mg) is recommended for severe or widespread cases. Antihistamines may help reduce itching. All close contacts must be treated simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Clothing, bedding, and towels must be washed in hot water and dried on high heat. Filariasis, also known as lymphatic filariasis, is a parasitic disease caused by thread-like filarial worms, primarily Wuchereria bancrofti , Brugia malayi , and Brugia timori . These worms are transmitted to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes. The adult worms reside in the lymphatic system and can cause chronic swelling and disability over time. The infection is caused by filarial worms, which are transmitted by mosquitoes. The larvae enter the bloodstream and migrate to the lymphatic vessels, where they mature into adult worms. In the early stages, filariasis may show no symptoms. As the disease progresses: Acute symptoms: Fever Swollen lymph nodes Painful swelling in limbs Chronic symptoms (usually after repeated infections): Elephantiasis (thickened and swollen skin) Swelling in the lower body Lymphedema (swelling of limbs) Secondary bacterial infections of the skin Living in or traveling to endemic areas Long-term exposure to mosquito bites Poor sanitation and hygiene Lack of mosquito control programs Blood tests (taken at night when parasites are active) Antigen detection tests Ultrasound to detect worm movement Serologic tests to identify antibodies Treatment focuses on killing the worms and managing symptoms: Diethylcarbamazine (DEC): Main drug used to kill microfilariae and some adult worms Main drug used to kill microfilariae and some adult worms Albendazole: Often used in combination with DEC or ivermectin Often used in combination with DEC or ivermectin Ivermectin (e.g., Ivercor 12 mg): Effective against microfilariae Effective against microfilariae Hygiene and skin care: To prevent secondary infections To prevent secondary infections Surgery: In cases of severe swelling In cases of severe swelling Lymphedema management: Includes elevation, compression, exercise, and skin care Feature Scabies Filariasis Causative Agent Mite ( Sarcoptes scabiei ) Filarial worms ( W. bancrofti , B. malayi ) Mode of Transmission Close physical contact Mosquito bites Affected Area Skin (surface and superficial layers) Lymphatic system (internal) Symptoms Itchy rash, burrows, blisters Swelling of limbs, fever, lymphedema Diagnosis Skin scraping, visual inspection Blood tests, antigen/antibody tests Treatment Permethrin, ivermectin DEC, albendazole, ivermectin Complications Secondary bacterial infection Elephantiasis, disability, social stigma Prevention Avoid close contact, hygiene Mosquito control, preventive medication Preventing Scabies: Avoid close contact with infected individuals Wash bedding and clothes in hot water Vacuum furniture and carpets regularly Maintain good personal hygiene Treat all household members if one is infected Preventing Filariasis: Use mosquito nets and repellents Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (stagnant water) Participate in Mass Drug Administration (MDA) programs Wear protective clothing in endemic areas Improve sanitation and waste disposal Early detection of both scabies and filariasis is critical. While scabies can be resolved quickly with proper treatment, ignoring it may lead to secondary skin infections and significant discomfort. Filariasis, if untreated, can cause irreversible lymphatic damage, disfigurement, and lifelong disability. Misdiagnosis is common in areas where both diseases coexist. Skin rashes from scabies may be mistaken for filarial dermatitis, while early lymphatic swelling might be wrongly attributed to other conditions. Hence, accurate diagnosis and access to healthcare are essential for effective treatment. Ivercor 12 mg (Ivermectin) is an effective antiparasitic medication used in both scabies and filariasis: In scabies: Ivermectin kills mites and their eggs, particularly useful in widespread or crusted scabies where topical treatments may not suffice. Ivermectin kills mites and their eggs, particularly useful in widespread or crusted scabies where topical treatments may not suffice. In filariasis: Ivermectin helps reduce the number of microfilariae in the blood, thereby limiting transmission and disease severity. Note: Dosage and duration vary depending on the condition. Always consult a healthcare provider before using ivermectin. Though scabies and filariasis are both parasitic infections, they differ greatly in cause, transmission, symptoms, and treatment. Scabies is a surface-level skin infestation caused by mites, while filariasis is a mosquito-borne disease affecting the internal lymphatic system. Both are preventable and treatable with proper awareness and timely medical intervention. In resource-limited settings, improving hygiene, mosquito control, and access to medications like Ivercor 12 mg can significantly reduce the burden of these diseases. Understanding the distinction between scabies and filariasis aids in accurate diagnosis, reduces unnecessary anxiety, and ensures better public health outcomes. Prevention, education, and early treatment remain the cornerstone of control strategies for these neglected tropical diseases. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
News18
06-06-2025
- Health
- News18
Expert Shares How To Guard Against Fungal Infections And Flare-Ups This Monsoon
Last Updated: Monsoon brings relief from heat. But it also brings humidity and dampness which create ideal conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive, making skin prone to infections. Indian monsoons bring welcome relief from the relentless summer heat, especially as climate change makes weather patterns increasingly unpredictable. Yet, along with the cooling rains comes heightened humidity and dampness that make for the perfect conditions for bacteria and fungi to thrive. This surge in moisture poses a particular risk to the skin, making it vulnerable to infections and flare-ups such as ringworm, tinea capitis, athlete's foot, acne, eczema, and scabies. While this may sound alarming, knowing how these conditions develop and adopting simple preventive steps can keep your skin healthy and protected throughout the season. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares expert advice on how to prevent the common skin infections that often arise during the monsoon season. Ringworm is one of the most common fungal infections that appear during the monsoons. It is a circular, itchy, and scaly rash that typically appears as red, scaly edges and a clearer centre. It is a type of fungal infection which is rampant during the monsoon, owing to the excess humidity and moisture in the environment during this period, which is a fertile ground for fungi. Preventive Measures and Natural Remedies This is one of the most contagious fungal infections, typically affecting the scalp and hair shafts, primarily caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. This fungus on the scalp may be scaly or itchy and is mostly seen among children, particularly during monsoon, when damp conditions facilitate fungal spread. Preventive Measures Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) This fungal infection occurs due to sweaty conditions and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or surfaces like showers, swimming pool decks, and gym floors. Sharing towels, footwear, and socks can also spread the infection. The infection appears between the toes, resulting in skin peeling, redness, and itchiness. Preventive Measures Eczema Flare-Ups Eczema is a chronic inflammatory skin infection. During the monsoon, the moisture in the air can lead to increased sweat, which can further irritate the skin and trigger Eczema flare-ups. Hydrate skin regularly with fragrance-free moisturisers. Use gentle bathing practices: Avoid hot water and harsh soaps, and pat dry instead of rubbing. Opt for loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton to reduce irritation. Scabies Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin and leads to intense itching and a pimple-like rash. This condition spreads easily in humid environments, prolonging mite survival. Avoid prolonged skin contact with infected individuals. Wash clothes and bedding frequently in hot water. Treat household contacts simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Excess moisture and humidity are the prime reasons for the increased risk of skin infections during the monsoons. However, preventing them is very easy with proper precautionary measures like maintaining personal hygiene, dressing in breathable clothes, applying natural antifungal treatments, and staying away from shared personal belongings. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Fungal infections health and fitness lifestyle monsoon scabies skincare Location : Delhi, India, India First Published: June 06, 2025, 17:02 IST
Globe and Mail
31-03-2025
- Health
- Globe and Mail
Scabies Market Poised for Revolutionary Growth by 2032, Predicts DelveInsight
The scabies market is steadily advancing and is driven by evolving treatment strategies and ongoing research. DelveInsight's latest 7MM report offers in-depth insights into key epidemiology trends and market dynamics. DelveInsight's ' Scabies - Market Insight, Epidemiology, And Market Forecast - 2032 ″ report offers an in-depth understanding of the Scabies, historical and forecasted epidemiology as well as the Scabies market trends in the United States, EU5 (Germany, Spain, Italy, France, and the United Kingdom) and Japan. Some of the key facts of the Scabies Market Report: • The total Scabies market size is estimated to grow with a significant CAGR during the study period (2019-2032). • Scabies, a highly contagious skin disease, impacts approximately 200 to 300 million people worldwide each year, with higher prevalence in tropical regions and developing countries. • In 2021, scabies accounted for 5.3 million DALYs, with 206.6 million prevalent cases and 622.5 million new cases, predominantly affecting children and young individuals. • In January 2025, A recent article was published on Cureus that examines the psychological impact of scabies, highlighting that severe itching associated with the condition can lead to insomnia, concentration difficulties, and social disruptions. These challenges may contribute to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in affected individuals, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and mental health aspects of scabies. • An August 2024 article discussed a phase 2 trial demonstrating that a 3 mg dose of ivermectin effectively treated scabies in children aged 2–4 years. By day 14, 90 out of 99 cases had resolved, with only mild side effects in seven participants, supporting its use in global scabies control efforts. • Leading companies in the Scabies market include Merck & Co., GlaxoSmithKline plc, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Renaissance Pharma Inc., and others. Scabies Overview Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching and rash. It spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact and is prevalent in crowded living conditions, particularly in resource-limited settings. The condition is a significant public health concern worldwide, affecting millions annually, with a higher burden in tropical and developing regions. Scabies can lead to secondary bacterial infections and complications if left untreated. Treatment typically involves topical or oral medications, such as permethrin and ivermectin, to eliminate the mites and prevent reinfestation. Despite available therapies, challenges like treatment resistance, reinfection, and limited access to healthcare in endemic regions continue to impact disease control. Scabies Epidemiology The epidemiology section provides insights into the historical, current, and forecasted epidemiology trends in the seven major countries (7MM) from 2019 to 2032. It helps to recognize the causes of current and forecasted trends by exploring numerous studies and views of key opinion leaders. The epidemiology section also provides a detailed analysis of the diagnosed patient pool and future trends. Download the report to understand which factors are driving Scabies epidemiology trends @ Scabies Epidemiology Forecast Scabies Drugs Uptake and Pipeline Development Activities The drugs uptake section focuses on the rate of uptake of the potential drugs recently launched in the Scabies market or expected to be launched during the study period. The analysis covers the Scabies market uptake by drugs, patient uptake by therapies, and sales of each drug. Moreover, the therapeutics assessment section helps understand the drugs with the most rapid uptake and the reasons behind the maximal use of the drugs. Additionally, it compares the drugs based on market share. The report also covers the Scabies Pipeline Development Activities. It provides valuable insights about different therapeutic candidates in various stages and the key companies involved in developing targeted therapeutics. It also analyzes recent collaborations, acquisitions, mergers, licensing patent details, and other information for emerging therapies. Scabies Market Strengths • The high prevalence of scabies worldwide, particularly in developing regions, drives the demand for effective treatment options. • Ongoing research and new therapeutic developments, including oral and combination therapies, are improving treatment efficacy and accessibility. Scabies Market Weaknesses • In low-income and remote areas, lack of healthcare infrastructure and limited availability of medications hinder effective scabies management. • Issues such as drug resistance, reinfestation due to poor hygiene conditions, and the need for community-wide treatment strategies make disease eradication difficult. Scope of the Scabies Market Report • Study Period: 2019–2032 • Coverage: 7MM [The United States, EU5 (Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom), and Japan] • Key Scabies Companies: Merck & Co., GlaxoSmithKline plc, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Renaissance Pharma Inc., and others. • Scabies Therapeutic Assessment: Scabies currently marketed, and Scabies emerging therapies • Scabies Market Dynamics: Scabies market drivers and Scabies market barriers • Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis, PESTLE analysis, Porter's five forces, BCG Matrix, Market entry strategies • Scabies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, Scabies Market Access and Reimbursement To learn more about the key players and advancements in the Scabies Treatment Landscape, visit the Scabies Market Analysis Report Table of Contents 1. Scabies Market Report Introduction 2. Executive Summary for Scabies 3. SWOT analysis of Scabies 4. Scabies Patient Share (%) Overview at a Glance 5. Scabies Market Overview at a Glance 6. Scabies Disease Background and Overview 7. Scabies Epidemiology and Patient Population 8. Country-Specific Patient Population of Scabies 9. Scabies Current Treatment and Medical Practices 10. Scabies Unmet Needs 11. Scabies Emerging Therapies 12. Scabies Market Outlook 13. Country-Wise Scabies Market Analysis (2019–2032) 14. Scabies Market Access and Reimbursement of Therapies 15. Scabies Market Drivers 16. Scabies Market Barriers 17. Scabies Appendix 18. Scabies Report Methodology 19. DelveInsight Capabilities 20. Disclaimer 21. About DelveInsight About DelveInsight DelveInsight is a leading Healthcare Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports Pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. It also offers Healthcare Consulting Services, which benefits in market analysis to accelerate business growth and overcome challenges with a practical approach. Media Contact Company Name: DelveInsight Contact Person: Jatin Vimal Email: Send Email Phone: +14699457679 Address: 304 S. Jones Blvd #2432 City: Las Vegas State: Nevada Country: United States Website:
Yahoo
22-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Important truth behind peculiar item spotted in Aussie bush: 'Saves lives'
WARNING - GRAPHIC IMAGES: Mange is a pervasive and often fatal disease that severely impacts Australia's wombat populations. If left untreated, it can lead to a slow and agonising death for the iconic creatures. The disease is especially concerning for the common wombat, with up to 80 per cent of the population in some regions, particularly in NSW and Victoria, being affected. The widespread issue has contributed to high mortality rates and can also result in severe secondary infections, dehydration and further health complications. Marie Wynan, director at the Wombat Protection Society Australia, is on a mission to reverse the devastating impacts of mange. She explained that it's caused by mites, which burrow into the wombat's skin, causing intense itching, hair loss and lesions. Speaking to Yahoo News, Wynan, from NSW, said "burrow flaps" are one simple way people can help protect wombats from the deadly condition. Mange in wombats is believed to be caused by an introduced parasite — the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. While the exact origins of it in Australia is unclear, it is widely thought to have been introduced by Europeans and their livestock, particularly sheep, cattle and dogs, which are known carriers of the mites. The flap — installed outside a wombat's burrow — is coated with Cydectin, and when a wombat pushes through, the treatment transfers onto its fur, allowing for consistent dosing without handling the animal. Unlike direct injections or oral treatments, burrow flaps do not require capturing the wombat, making the process far less invasive. Since burrows are often shared, multiple wombats passing through the flap can receive treatment, improving effectiveness in affected populations. It's been proven to have a real impact, Wynan said. "It's a death sentence otherwise," she told Yahoo. "If they don't get treated, they will die. And it can wipe out entire populations." There's a number of ways they can become infected. "They can get it from another wombat that has mange," Wynan said. "They can get it from walking past a dead wombat, [but] direct contact is the main form of transmission. If they get it, there is no return. Untreated, they will die a slow death. "They literally scratch themselves to death — it's really, really awful." And while the outlook might seem bleak, conservationists like Wyan are working tirelessly to treat as many wombats as possible. She encouraged people to install the burrow flaps if they have wombats in their local area, but critically, to do so in the proper way. 🦠 $2.8m lifeline to fight disease driving wombats to extinction 💉 Mange is threatening the survival of wombats 🏡 Aussies urged to make life-saving garden change Wynan said, first, you must find out if they have mange in the first place, which can be determined by sending photos into the Wombat Protection Society or similar agencies. Then, it's best to follow instructions from the professionals — which can be found here. Though it is generally illegal to interfere with native animals without proper permits, when it is part of official conservation programs or when it's carried out under the guidance of wildlife authorities and experts, a real difference can be made. "You need to confirm that it is mange because it might be attack wounds, or it might have been injured in another way. The best thing is to take photos," Wynan said. "We need to be doing everything we can to help these wombats." From a conservation standpoint, the installation of burrow flaps is seen as a form of active protection for wombats, especially in regions where mange is widespread and causing significant harm. Since the flaps are designed to help manage and treat a disease rather than disrupt the natural behaviour, they are typically considered a necessary intervention in cases where the species' survival is at risk. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
