By Esnart Chingwalu

Commercial City of Blantyre has been hit with an increase in highly contagious skin disease of scabies with Chichiri Prison among areas affected.

In a statement released by Blantyre District Health (DHO) office which has been signed by Director of Health and Social Services Gift Kawalazira it says the disease is on the rise as per data available in the health facilities in the district.

The statement says a total of 255 cases have been reported so far from June to September with South Lunzu having around 69 cases, Gateway Clinic with 61 cases,  Chichiri Prison nine among others.

“We have registered an increase in this disease…the health office is on alert as we are conducting an active surveillance in addition to sensitising communities on adherence to preventive measures in order to control the spread,” reads part of the statement.

Meanwhile the health office has advised institutions such as schools and churches to be on alert on the signs and symptoms of the disease.

“Institutions that deal with large groups of people like schools, churches, mosques and others must be on high alert on monitoring of the signs and symptoms and report any suspected cases to the health authorities with delay,” the statement reads.

Scabies is highly contagious skin disease caused by parasites that live in the skin causing small blisters and papules, and the disease is associated with poor personal hygiene.