Cumilla Correspondent

“Scabies” or “khospachra” is a highly contagious and painful skin disease. It is spreading rapidly across Cumilla, from rural areas to urban neighborhoods. Doctors have warned that if not treated in time, it can even damage the kidneys of an infected person.

Tawhid, a child from the Racecourse area of Cumilla city, has red rashes all over his hands and feet. He came to Cumilla General Hospital with his father for treatment. Tawhid’s father, Jamal Hossain, told Dhaka Tribune, “Everyone in the family — my three sons and wife — is infected with this disease. It first appeared in Tawhid, then spread through his body and belongings to my sons Jonaid, Tanzid, and my wife Asma Akter. Initially, small heat rash-like spots appeared on their hands and feet, followed by intense itching. After consulting a doctor, we were told it's a contagious skin disease called scabies. However, even after treatment, there has been no relief. The whole family is suffering.”

According to doctors, 70% of dermatology patients visiting government and private hospitals in Cumilla are diagnosed with scabies. Although it initially affected children, now people of all ages are getting infected. The disease can spread not only through direct contact with the infected person but also through their personal belongings.

Doctors explained that scabies starts with small rash-like bumps that cause intense itching. The infection commonly appears in body folds such as between fingers, waist, neck, buttocks, genitals, palms, wrists, underarms, navel, and elbows. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to various complications, including kidney damage. It is highly contagious and can spread through any items used by the infected person.

The infection rate is highest in Muradnagar and Debidwar upazilas of the district.

Dr. Azizur Rahman Siddiqui, a dermatologist and venereal disease specialist at Cumilla General Hospital, told Dhaka Tribune, “The infection rate of this contagious skin disease is increasing. Among the 200-plus patients who seek treatment daily, about 70% are affected by scabies.” He added, “Because this disease is highly contagious, it spreads through direct contact with the infected person or through items like clothes, bed sheets, and towels. Therefore, immediate consultation with a doctor is crucial. Without treatment, the disease can cause serious complications, including kidney damage.”

However, scabies is curable. Dr. Ali Nur Bashir, Civil Surgeon of Cumilla District, advised that all household members of an infected person should undergo treatment simultaneously to prevent the spread. He said, “Hot and humid weather and sudden rains create favorable conditions for this disease. It can also be sexually transmitted.

 Though curable with treatment, if medical advice is not taken promptly, the whole family can become infected. Scabies can damage the kidneys. So, along with medical treatment, public awareness must also be raised.”