Sarcoptes Scabiei Infestation in Iran: A Brief Review Report

Abstract

Background and objectives: Sarcoptes scabiei is a microscopic parasitic arthropod that penetrates into epidermis of the skin and causes scabies, a contagious disease that is one of the most common causes of dermatosis in the world. Methods: We herein summarize published papers about Sarcoptes scabiei infestation in Iran. Databases including MEDLINE, Pubmed and Google scholar were searched using the following terms: Sarcoptes scabiei, mange, prevalence of Sarcoptes scabiei and scabies status in Iran. Results: Overall, we found approximately 15 articles related to the prevalence of Sarcoptes scabiei infestation in Iran. According to these studies, the prevalence of Sarcoptes scabiei infestation has been rather high in Iran during war and in prisons and humid areas of the country. Conclusion: In spite of the low prevalence of scabies, it is necessary to implant prevention programs continuously by reducing overcrowding, improving health education, personal hygiene, diagnostics tools, and screening and treatment of high-risk populations.

Comparing the Trends of Vector-Borne Diseases (VBDs) before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Spatial Distribution in Southern Iran

“…According to previous studies, the scabies infestation rate ranges between 1.3% and 57% [12]. Sarcoptes scabiei, also called itch mite, is an ectoparasite that burrows canals into the skin and causes scabies.…”