Doctors warn: if you notice small red spots on your hands or the skin of your arm, don’t ignore them — this could be an important signal that your body is trying to pay attention to

Don’t underestimate the small red dots on your hand – possible warning signs
There are unusually large outbreaks of scabies in the UK and doctors are urging people to seek medical attention if they notice small red spots or a rash on their skin. Prompt treatment is key to limiting the spread. Anyone can be affected.

Scabies is an intensely itchy rash caused by microscopic mites that is transmitted primarily through close skin-to-skin contact. Early recognition and treatment reduce the risk of complications and break the chain of transmission.

What do the symptoms look like?

The most common manifestations are:

severe itching, especially at night

raised rash, small red spots, or tiny nodules

fine “tunnels” on the skin (they look like thin, grayish or skin-colored lines)