Scabies Outbreak in Coshocton City Schools

Health Department officials are calling a number of scabies incidents in the Coshocton City Schools an "outbreak."

Coshocton County Health Commissioner Bob Brems said an outbreak is considered to be anything above normal, in most cases this is when the infestation affects more than one family. Brems said scabies is a common skin infestation caused by tiny mites burrowing in the skin. The infection causes the skin to itch and appear rash-like. He said it mainly spreads by skin-on-skin contact.

Coshocton City Schools Superintendent Dave Hire said five students and four staff members of South Lawn Elementary School have been confirmed to have the infestation. He said no cases have been reported in the district’s other three schools but Central Elementary is being watched due to sibling contacts.

Hire said students with symptoms are being sent home. The schools is working closely with both the city and county health departments to monitor the outbreak.

Brems said scabies is no more severe than chicken pox or lice. Students with symptoms should see a doctor for treatment.