An outbreak of Norwegian scabies in a surgical ward.

An outbreak of Norwegian scabies in a surgical ward of a teaching hospital was reported. The source of infestation was an elderly diabetic. The epidemic involved 28 of 32 medical personnel in the ward and 3 family contacts. All infected individuals were given a two-course treatment with hexachlorcyclohexane gel. Control of the outbreak was achieved by strict handwashing after patient contact, application of gowns and gloves for contact with skin lesions and the treatment of infected persons. Norwegian scabies in institutions is on the rise, vigilance for its occurrence is needed.