Golan Heights base closed after dozens contract scabies
Dozens of troops from the Central Command's 'Dragon'
artillery battalion who are currently training in the Golan Heights have over
the last few days complained of severe itching which is most likely a result of
scabies found in the bedding and mattresses on the base.
The soldiers have received medical care and were
separated from the uninfected troops. In an unusual decision the chief medical
officer directed that the base be closed until the problem is solved for fear
of contagion.
"The soldiers can't stop itching and infecting each
other. They received sick leave. No one understands how it started,"
soldiers from the battalion noted.
The IDF Spokesman stated that "Following soldiers'
complaints of itching, the complainants were examined by the unit doctor and
were diagnosed with scabies. Meanwhile, several soldiers were referred to
specialist dermatologists for further consultations and confirmation of the
diagnosis.
"The unit carried out disinfestations… in order to
prevent the disease from spreading and soldiers are be care for within the
battalion in accordance with their medical situation while maintaining
separation between the soldiers who contracted (the disease) and the healthy
soldiers."
Scabies is a skin infection that is caused by a tiny and
usually not directly visible parasite, which burrows under the host's skin,
causing intense allergic itching.
Prescription medicated creams which are apllied all over
the sufferer's body, are commonly used to treat scabies infections.
Comments
Post a Comment