AN outbreak of scabies has occurred in Morriston Hospital prompting Swansea Bay University Heath Board to issue a notice to the public calling for concerned residents to contact GPs or local pharmacies.

The hospital has placed restrictions on visitation but have failed to mention whether this is linked to a previous outbreak of a rare and highly contagious form of the infestation called crusted scabies which affected a ward in Glangwili Hopsital, Carmarthen.

Commenting, Claire Archibald MS, Shadow Cabinet Minister for Social Care, said:

“I am extremely concerned to see yet another reported outbreak of scabies, this time in Morriston Hospital, making this is the third outbreak in the last month.

“The Welsh Government needs to explain what’s being done to prevent further cases, identify the sources of these outbreaks and establish whether there are any links.

“I recently raised this issue in the Senedd calling for an urgent update and an emergency response. I’ve written to the Minister, I’ve had no answer and no update.”

In Senedd on October 6, the Ceredigion Penfro MS said of the scabies outbreak in Hywel Dda Hospitals:

“There is growing concern about the spread of scabies within communities and care settings. The situation has become even more alarming following the reported death of an elderly gentleman, whose illness was linked to complications associated with scabies. Given the vulnerability of older people, those living in residential care and individuals with underlying health concerns, there are serious questions about the infection control measures, the availability of treatment, support for care providers and the steps being taken to prevent further outbreaks.”

“It’s not good enough for Plaid to sit back and do nothing,” she added after the latest outbreak. “Patients, families and frontline staff are dealing with the consequences, they deserve clear answers, practical support and urgent action.”