The condition, which is spread via close contact, have seen restrictions on visitors
Richard Youle and Adam Care
19:44, 30 Oct 2026
Morriston Hospital, Swansea, where cases of scabies have been confirmed(Image: Richard Youle)
Cases of scabies have been confirmed at a hospital in the UK. The health board in Swansea, south Wales, said the known cases were few in number and it would be instigating visiting restrictions at the affected site.
Scabies causes a skin rash and intense itching and is caused by microscopic mites burrowing under the skin. An outbreak was recorded at Prince Philip Hospital, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, last month.
Scabies spreads through close skin contact and often affects skin between the fingers, around the wrists, under the arms, and around the waist, groin and bottom, reports WalesOnline.
A spokesman for Swansea Bay University Health Board, which covers Swansea and Neath Port Talbot, said: “The health board can confirm a small number of scabies cases at Morriston Hospital.
“Families have been informed and appropriate treatment or guidance has been provided to patients, staff, and relatives.
“Some visiting restrictions are in place, and we are grateful to relatives for their understanding.
“If anyone has concerns that they might have scabies, they can get advice from their local pharmacy or GP.”
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An outbreak of a rare and highly contagious form of the infestation called crusted scabies affected a ward in Glangwili Hopsital, Carmarthen, in July.
– Information about symptoms and treatment can be found on the NHS 111 Wales website: https://111.wales.nhs.uk/encyclopaedia/s/article/scabies.
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