Scabies cases in Czechia up 40 percent in first half of the year

More than 7,100 cases of scabies have been recorded in Czechia since the start of the year, around 40 percent more than in the first half of 2025, the Czech Public Health Service said on Thursday. The highest numbers were reported in the Moravian-Silesian, Central Bohemian and South Moravian regions.

Health officials are urging people to seek treatment as soon as symptoms appear to help prevent further spread. Scabies is a contagious skin disease that causes intense itching and a rash. If left untreated, it can lead to serious bacterial infections.

Four people aged between 52 and 80 have died from scabies-related complications this year, according to the National Institute of Public Health. The disease spreads mainly through prolonged skin-to-skin contact or by sharing contaminated bedding, towels or clothing.