The Gambia’s ministry of health is responding to a scabies outbreak at Daara Madina Suwaneh, a Quranic school located in Brufut Heights.

The ministry confirmed that 57 out of 101 children examined at the school have tested positive for the highly contagious skin condition.

Scabies is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, leading to severe itching and a rash. It spreads quickly in overcrowded and unhygienic conditions.

Officials say the affected children were living in poor health conditions and had limited access to medical care at the time of the investigation.

The ministry, in collaboration with health partners, has launched a response effort, including the provision of treatment, hygiene promotion, and preventative measures to contain the outbreak.

In a statement, the ministry urged institutions housing minors to prioritise hygiene and routine medical check-ups, warning that such environments are particularly vulnerable to the rapid spread of infectious diseases.

By Adama Makasuba