Scabies outbreak in Bangladesh: a growing public health crisis

Abstract

This study highlights the growing scabies crisis in Bangladesh, particularly affecting urban and rural areas, madrasahs, residential institutions, and Rohingya refugee camps. Drawing on epidemiological data and field studies, it identifies key factors contributing to transmission, such as overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and low socioeconomic status, which disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including children and displaced populations. Although permethrin remains the primary treatment, reinfection is prevalent, and oral ivermectin provides a valuable alternative in water-scarce environments. Behavioral factors and a fragile health infrastructure impede control efforts. Institutional interventions and mass drug administration have demonstrated success, but long-term prevention continues to pose challenges. The findings advocate for alternative pharmacological approaches, integrated WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) strategies, enhanced primary healthcare and surveillance systems, public education initiatives, and policy-level recognition of scabies as a climate-sensitive infectious disease to reduce its impact on marginalized communities.