Common skin infections for training of ANMs

Common Skin infections to train ASHA and ANMs for identification

1. SKIN INFECTIONS

2. SCABIES

3. What is Scabies? A highly contagious skin infestation caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Brief overview of the symptoms: intense itching, especially at night, with small, pimple-like bumps. Small, pimple-like bumps or burrows on the skin (often on hands, wrists, elbows, buttocks, genitals)Scratching can lead to secondary skin infections (impetigo)

4. Spread of Scabies Direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person (common during close living conditions) Indirect contact through contaminated clothing, bedding, towels (for short periods)

5. Diagnosis and Treatment Dx: Visual examination by a healthcare worker is usually sufficientIn some cases, a skin scraping test might be done to confirm the presence of mites Rx: Topical scabicide creams or lotions prescribed by a healthcare worker ( permethrin, ivermectin)Oral medication (ivermectin) might be used in some cases All close contacts (even if not showing symptoms) should be treated simultaneously to prevent re-infection

6. Prevention of SCABIES Maintain good personal hygiene: wash clothes, bedding, towels in hot water (above 50°C)Avoid close contact with infected individuals Educate family members and close contacts about scabies and treatment

7. TINEA

8. What is Tinea? A fungal infection of the skin, hair, or nails caused by dermatophytes (mold-like organisms) Types of Tinea: Tinea corporis (ringworm), Tinea cruris (jock itch), Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm), Tinea unguium (nail fungus)

9. Transmission of Tinea Direct contact with infected people or animals (e.g., pets with ringworm)Indirect contact with contaminated objects (combs, towels, clothing) Warm, humid environments promote fungal growth Signs and Symptoms (Common)Red, itchy, scaly patches on the skin with raised borders and clear centers (ringworm pattern)Hair loss in patches (scalp ringworm)Thickened, discolored, and brittle nails (nail fungus).

10. DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Visual examination by a healthcare worker is often sufficient In some cases, a skin scraping or KOH test might be done to confirm the presence of fungus Treatment of Tinea: Antifungal creams, lotions, or sprays applied directly to the affected area (clotrimazole, miconazole, terbinafine)Oral antifungal medication for stubborn or widespread infections. Treatment duration varies depending on the type and severity of tinea.

11. PREVENTION OF TINEA INFECTION Good hygiene: wash hands frequently, keep skin dry Avoid sharing personal items like combs, towels, clothes Treat infected pets under veterinary guidance Wear proper footwear in public showers or locker rooms

12. PEDICULOSIS

13. What is Pediculosis? A parasitic infestation caused by lice - tiny, wingless insects that feed on human blood Three main types of lice affecting humans: head lice, body lice, and pubic lice

14. Symptoms Intense itching, especially at night (worse when skin warms up)Small, red bumps on the scalp, neck, or shoulders (head lice) Scratching may lead to scabs and sores Body lice bites, usually on the torso, shoulders, and backItching in the genital area, pubic hair (pubic lice)

15. Transmission AND DIAGNOSIS Direct head-to-head contact (common among children) Sharing personal items like combs, brushes, hats (head lice) Contact with infested clothing, bedding, furniture (body lice) Sexual contact or close skin-to-skin contact (pubic lice) Visual examination of the scalp, hair, or affected area for lice or nits (lice eggs) Using a special fine-toothed comb to detect nits attached to hair shafts (head lice)

16. TREATMENT AND PREVENTION Over-the-counter (OTC) medicated shampoos or lotions containing permethrin or malathion Prescription medications might be needed for severe cases or resistance Treatment should be followed by thorough cleaning of clothes, bedding, and personal items

17. Maintain good hygiene: wash clothes, bedding, towels in hot water (above 50°C) Avoid sharing personal items like combs, brushes, hats Educate children about not sharing headgear Regular checks for lice, especially after sleepovers or close contact situations