Parasitic mites plague Makalapa Elementary

Several cases of scabies have been reported at Makalapa Elementary School, and the principal has alerted parents and staff to keep an eye out for the skin infection, which is caused by a parasitic mite.

Department of Education spokeswoman Lindsay Chambers said Monday she could not elaborate on whether children or adults were affected or give any more details about the cases due to privacy rules. The school’s facilities and classrooms have been disinfected.

Makalapa Principal Denise Arai sent a letter to parents, guardians, faculty and staff Oct. 23 advising them of the situation. She said the skin infection can cause intense itching, especially at night, and leave a pimplelike rash, often on the fingers, wrists, elbows and knees.

“If symptoms suggesting a scabies infection present themselves, please consult your health care provider,” Arai wrote. “Mild cases are treated with medicated skin cream or lotion prescribed by your doctor, followed by a hot water bath and soap. Medical treatment will be required to fully remedy a scabies infection.”

The problem can be spread through direct contact with infected skin or shared clothing, towels and bedding. Using the hot cycle on your washer and dryer will kill mites and eggs. Thorough vacuuming is recommended.

Chambers said she was not aware of scabies being reported at any other school. Makalapa Elementary is on Salt Lake Boulevard near Pearl Harbor’s historic sites.

For more information about scabies, visit health.hawaii.gov/docd/disease_listing/scabies.