SUCCESS OF A SCABIES CONTROL PROGRAM IN AN AUSTRALIAN ABORIGINAL COMMUNITY

Objective. To adapt, implement and evaluate a model of scabies control in an Australian Aboriginal community. Methods. After initially exami ning the population, we offered all residents treatment with 5% permet hrin cream. Visits were made during the ensuing 25 months to rescreen and to treat new-cases of scabies and contacts. Results. The prevalenc e of scabies was reduced from 28.8% before the program to <10% during the entire period (from 32.3% to <10% in children) (P < 0.01 for each visit). The initial prevalence of pyoderma in children was 69.4%, whic h was reduced and maintained at approximately one-half that rate durin g the last 16 months (P < 0.004 for the last 4 visits). Residual pyode rma in children was significantly less severe and no longer scabies-re lated. Conclusions. This simplified model of scabies control had a sub stantial effect on scabies prevalence and on pyoderma prevalence and s everity which was sustained for >2 years. It could prove useful for ot her communities with high rates of scabies and pyoderma.