Scabies outbreak hits Maryland veterans' home

The Charlotte Hall (Md.) Veterans Home is currently containing a scabies outbreak among its residents and staff, according to the Maryland Independent.  

The St. Mary's County Health Department learned about the outbreak July 11, Kim Robertson, public information officer, wrote in an email for the Maryland Independent.  

Russell Keogler, the veterans' home administrator, would not disclose the number of people who developed the condition, citing HIPAA. Residents and staff with scabies are being treated with topical creams.

Sharon Murphy, director of the veterans' home, said signs have been posted around the building to inform visitors of the infestation. Charlotte Hall also notified family members of affected residents.

The Charlotte Hall Veterans Home has "been completely transparent" about the outbreak, Ms. Murphy told Maryland Independent. "It happens in long-term care and close knit populations," she said.

The health department is still trying to locate the cause of the outbreak.

More articles on clinical leadership and infection control: 

14 percent of babies born to Zika-infected mothers have health issues, CDC report finds
'Post-hospital syndrome' could be increasing readmissions for older patients
Hepatitis C cured in patients who received infected kidneys, researchers report

Copyright © 2024 Becker's Healthcare. All Rights Reserved. Privacy Policy. Cookie Policy. Linking and Reprinting Policy.

 

Featured Whitepapers

Featured Webinars