This organism is the cause of water scabies. While not overly dangerous, they can be quite bothersome.
Living in Hanoi these days, it seems everyone has experienced the flooding from rain, which has become “a common occurrence.” A sudden heavy downpour can last about an hour, ensuring our capital is submerged in a vast sea of water. People wade through the flooded streets, vehicles are half-submerged, and many engines stall. Cars remain immobile, and riding a motorbike is no better. People struggle through the dirty water, laboriously pushing their bikes… This situation has led many to suffer from a condition known as water scabies.
The rainy weather in Hanoi causes many people to suffer from water scabies.
What is water scabies?
According to WebMD, water scabies is not an infectious disease but a contagious condition. Tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei burrow and nest in the outer layer of human skin. When they dig tunnels and lay eggs within the skin, the affected individual experiences relentless itching and develops numerous consecutive rashes.
What symptoms do individuals with water scabies exhibit?
For someone experiencing water scabies for the first time, it may take 4-6 weeks for symptoms to appear. The most common symptoms include:
- Severe itching, especially at night.
- Rash resembling pimples.
- Presence of scales or blisters.
- Open sores from scratching.
A person experiencing water scabies for the first time may take 4-6 weeks for symptoms to appear.
Is water scabies easily confused with other skin conditions?
In the early stages, individuals with water scabies may confuse it with other skin conditions due to similar rashes. You might mistake it for acne or mosquito bites… The only distinguishing factor in water scabies is the constant itching, which tends to be more severe in the elderly and young children.
What causes water scabies to attack?
The primary cause is continuous flooding. Repeatedly wading through polluted water creates an environment for bacteria and parasites to thrive. Among these parasites is Sarcoptes scabiei. Regular exposure to water, wearing wet shoes, neglecting personal hygiene, and poor sanitation… all increase the likelihood of encountering water scabies on a beautiful day.
Water scabies can be confused with acne or mosquito bites…
In another scenario, even if you maintain cleanliness, you can still contract water scabies through infection. Living in close quarters, sharing common spaces in crowded and unsanitary conditions… can lead to clean individuals becoming infected. Water scabies spreads easily from person to person in these ways.
Of course, sharing clothing, using common items, or direct contact with someone who has water scabies is also a risk. During the rainy season, those who live this way should be particularly concerned.
How can you prevent water scabies?
Water scabies pose a risk of outbreak in a modern city like Hanoi during the rainy season. While not extremely dangerous, they can be very annoying, causing significant inconvenience in daily life. If left untreated, they can lead to infections and require antibiotics. To prevent water scabies, experts recommend:
Water scabies pose a risk of outbreak in a modern city like Hanoi during the rainy season.
- Minimize contact with dirty water or floodwaters during this time. If unavoidable, you should quickly exit the situation and wash immediately with clean water. You may also want to take a shower to ensure your entire body is clean.
- On rainy days, avoid wearing shoes. Use breathable sandals that allow both your feet and the footwear to dry quickly. If you must wear shoes, do not wear wet shoes or damp socks. Clean and dry your shoes and socks after wading through water.
- Avoid sharing items or direct contact with individuals who have water scabies or other skin conditions. Even those who are not infected should refrain from sharing items.
- Pay attention to personal hygiene after each day, especially after returning home, coming into contact with rainwater or dirty water…
Discover the ancient wonder found in the Arabian Desert
Fishing at sea, unexpectedly encountering a large white shark
