STEFFAN WARD CLOSED FOLLOWING CRUSTED SCABIES OUTBREAK

Steffan Ward at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen has been closed following an outbreak of crusted scabies, a rare and highly contagious form of the illness. Hywel Dda health board announced the closure to manage the outbreak in accordance with established infection prevention and control procedures. All patients and staff identified as contacts have been informed and offered treatment, including those without symptoms. The health board has implemented extra infection prevention and control measures on the ward, including enhanced monitoring, treatment of identified contacts and support from specialist teams.

Crusted scabies causes a scaly rash and thickened crusts of skin containing thousands of mites. The condition can occur in people with reduced immunity, though this is not always the case. Hywel Dda health board reported a rise in scabies cases across Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion, which has contributed to hospital outbreaks in the area. The illness spreads through close skin contact and can affect anyone, according to NHS information.

Steffan Ward will reopen when it is safe to do so in line with infection prevention and control guidance, Hywel Dda health board stated. The situation will remain under review as the outbreak is managed. The health board did not provide a timeline for when the ward might resume normal operations.