The Ministry of Public Health of Haiti has confirmed that a very contagious skin infection similar to scabies, is circulating in Haiti. This is a form of sarcoptosis. The symptoms are itching and skin lesions from scratching, especially at night. Those suffering from these symptoms should seek medical care. The Ministry of Public Health recommends avoiding contact with infected persons, boiling or disinfecting the clothing, sheets, pillows and bath towels used by the person. The infected persons should take measures to avoid scratching.
As reported, the first cases were detected in Kenskoff, a town 1,500 meters above sea level that is located 10 kms to the southeast of Port-au-Prince. Wikipedia explains that Kenscoff is the home of the Baptist Haiti Mission, Hospital De Fermathe, the Wynne Farm Ecological Reserve, and the Architectural Association Haiti Visiting School.
Haiti Libre reports that since 14 April 2022, the Ministry of Public Health of Haiti via the West Health Department has deployed a multidisciplinary team to Kenskoff to stem the outbreak of sarcoptosis in this area.
The Ministry of Public Health of the Dominican Republic issued a note dated 17 April 2022 indicating the Dominican consulate in Haiti had reported a skin infection is circulating that has affected Haitian citizens in Haiti. The recommendations are the same as for sarcoptosis, a disease that is endemic in Haiti and has been a problem for the Haitian public health authorities for more than three years. The Ministry of Public Health says that on this side of the border people should be alert, especially in zones of greater risk.
Read more:
Haiti Libre
Wikipedia
18 April 2022