WSP Publications

Burden of scabies and bacterial skin infection in Kiribati: results of a national population-based survey 2023

Anderson et al. (2025) conducted a national cross-sectional survey in Kiribati to assess scabies and bacterial skin infections in 10,515 people in November, 2023. Scabies prevalence was estimated at 24.9%, and highest among infants (<1 year: 47.2%). Bacterial skin infections occurred in 7.9% of participants. Scabies accounted for about 80% of associated bacterial infections, underscoring a substantial public health burden and supporting the need for coordinated control efforts, including possible mass drug administration.

Anderson RF, Bauro T, Lake SJ, Tikataake M, Parnaby M, Hill J, Tong-Kaunibwe TJ, Grobler AC, Kirition R, Steer AC. Burden of scabies and bacterial skin infection in Kiribati: results of a national population-based survey 2023. The Lancet Regional Health–Western Pacific. 2025 Jul 1;60. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanwpc/article/PIIS2666-6065(25)00173-7/fulltext

 

Prevalence of scabies and bacterial skin infection in French Polynesia: A cross-sectional community survey

Walker et al. (2025) conducted a community-based cross-sectional survey in French Polynesia to measure scabies and bacterial skin infection prevalence. Among 1,770 participants, scabies affected 11.9% of individuals, highest in children under five, and 5.5% had bacterial skin infections. Those with scabies had a ten-fold higher risk of bacterial infection. Prevalence exceeded the 10% threshold for considering mass drug administration as a public health strategy.

Walker GR, Lake SJ, Parnaby MG, Reneteaud T, Mapotoeke M, Marmorat RP, White RH, Andersson S, Kaldor JM, Segalin JM, Mallet HP. Prevalence of scabies and bacterial skin infections in French Polynesia: A cross-sectional community survey. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases. 2025 Jun 9;19(6):e0013119. https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0013119

 

Acceptability of a nationwide scabies mass drug administration (MDA) program in Fiji: a qualitative interview-based study

Mitchell et al. (2024) investigated the acceptability of Fiji's nationwide scabies mass drug administration (MDA) through qualitative interviews with community members, health staff, and stakeholders. Findings indicated generally high acceptability, driven by the perceived burden of scabies, trust in health authorities, and effective community engagement. Barriers included fears of side effects, misinformation, and logistical challenges, particularly in remote areas. The study highlights the critical role of culturally appropriate communication, local leadership, and sustained trust for successful MDA implementation.

Mitchell E, Tavui A, Andersson S, Lake S, Koroivueti A, Koroivueta J, Kaurasi R, Bechu V, Kaldor J, Steer A, Romani L. Acceptability of a nationwide scabies mass drug administration (MDA) program in Fiji: a qualitative interview-based study. The Lancet Regional Health–Western Pacific. 2024 Oct 1;51.

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