Scabies outbreak forces visitor ban at Prince Philip Hospital

Hywel Dda University Health Board has temporarily barred visitors from Prince Philip Hospital as a scabies outbreak continues to develop. The decision, announced on Tuesday, aims to curb the spread of the highly contagious mite‑borne skin condition across the hospital and the wider community.

Executive Director of Nursing, Quality and Patient Experience Sharon Daniel said: “We have taken the decision to restrict visitors to Prince Philip Hospital today to limit the spread of scabies on our site and in our community.”
She added: “We are taking direct action to treat patients, staff and contacts, and undertake deep cleaning of our wards, in line with infection prevention control measures.”
Scabies is transmitted through prolonged skin‑to‑skin contact or by sharing bedding and clothing, and is not linked to poor hygiene. Health Board officials confirmed that treatment is being offered to all identified patients, staff members and close contacts.

Deep cleaning of affected wards is underway, with specialist teams using approved disinfectants to eradicate any lingering mites. While the Minor Injury Unit remains fully operational, the board warned that some scheduled appointments may be delayed.

Patients whose care plans could be impacted are being contacted directly with guidance on next steps. Hywel Dda’s infection control team is reviewing the situation hourly, adjusting protocols as new information emerges.

Public Health Wales has been notified of the outbreak, though the board declined to detail the extent of the agency’s involvement. Local residents have been urged to support the hospital’s measures and to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms such as intense itching or a rash.

Scabies can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and is treatable with prescribed medication. Health Board spokespersons stressed that the outbreak does not reflect a lapse in hygiene standards at the facility.

“The condition is not usually serious and can be treated effectively,” the spokesperson said, reinforcing the importance of prompt treatment. Hospital administrators are coordinating with community health services to ensure that any secondary cases are identified quickly.

Patients who have been in close contact with confirmed cases are being screened as part of the containment strategy. Staff members identified as contacts are receiving prophylactic treatment to prevent further transmission.

The board’s rapid response follows a similar outbreak at a neighbouring trust earlier this year, prompting heightened vigilance. Hywel Dda’s chief executive highlighted the board’s commitment to patient safety, noting that visitor restrictions are a temporary but necessary measure.

“Our priority is to protect patients, staff and the community,” he said, adding that normal visitor access will be restored once the risk is mitigated. Local GPs have been briefed on the situation and are prepared to advise patients on recognising and managing scabies.

Health Board officials have set up a dedicated hotline for queries related to the outbreak and visitor policies. Community groups have expressed concern but also appreciation for the transparent communication from the hospital.

“We understand the inconvenience, but the health of everyone must come first,” a representative from a local charity said. Hywel Dda will continue to monitor the outbreak closely, with daily updates to be provided to staff and the public.

Any further restrictions or changes to services will be communicated promptly through official channels. As the situation evolves, the board urges anyone experiencing symptoms to seek medical attention without delay.