Investigation, prevention and control of a healthcare-associated infection outbreak due to Norwegian scabies / 中国感染控制杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To understand the epidemiological characteristics of a healthcare-associated infection(HAI)outbreak due to Norwegian scabies in a hospital,and provide basis for clinical prevention and control of HAI.Methods Through epidemiological investigation,all suspected patients and close contacts were investigated and traced,three dimensional distribution of patients was described,a series of effective comprehensive prevention and control measures were formulated and implemented.Results A total of 16 cases of Norwegian scabies infection occurred in November 3-16,2015,the most frequent cases were in November 11(n=5),the onset time of infection was concentrated in November 9-11(n=10),accounting for 62.50%of total cases.Spatial distribution of 16 cases 12 cases were in general internal medicine department,2 in nursing department,and 2 were relatives of employees.Population distribution patients aged 50-59(n=7),female(n=13),and nursing staff(n=9).After taking comprehensive prevention and control measures and medication treatment,16 infected persons were all cured,the cure rate was 100%,there was no new cases occurred in the hospital,epidemic was under control.Conclusion Norwegian scabies is highly contagious,it can cause epidemic in local area.In order to avoid spread of scabies infection in hospital,health care workers should strengthen the diagnosis and precaution level of the disease.