The Saskatchewan Health Authority has issued a warning to residents in Eston and surrounding area after cases of scabies were confirmed. The recently diagnosed cases were both reported in the community of Eston and in the long-term care facility within the town.

Scabies are mites that spread mostly by skin-to-skin contact with an infected person, however can be spread through extended contact with bedding, clothing or towels of an infected person.

The mites are too small to be seen with the human eye, however, according to healthline.com, there are some identifying symptoms to watch out for:
• rash and intense itching that gets worse at night
• rashes that look like blisters or pimples – pink, raised bumps with a clear top filled with fluid, sometimes they appear in a row
• they can also cause grey lines on your skin along with red bumps
• red and scaly patches on your skin
• they can attack the entire body, but are prevalent around the hands and feet

The SHA are urging people to be aware of the symptoms and if you notice them, to make an appointment with a physician as soon as possible.

You can help prevent contracting or spreading the virus by maintaining good infection control standards, especially good hand hygiene.

As a result of the cases confirmed at the long-term care facility in Eston, visitation will be restricted to ensure minimal spread.

For more information on scabies you can call the provincial health line at 811.