Pittsburgh King PreK-8 parents notified student has scabies

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh Public Schools principal at Pittsburgh King PreK-8 sent a letter to parents, saying a student has scabies.
 
The letter said:
 
"This is to alert you that a student in your child's classroom at Pittsburgh King was confirmed with a case of scabies. Scabies can be transferred from person to person through direct skin to skin contact. This condition is at times difficult to diagnose. The infestation appears to look like a pimple-like skin rash and causes severe itching.
 
"If you have been notified that your child may have scabies or if you notice this type of rash on your child, please take them to the doctor immediately. A doctor must examine a small scraping of the skin under a microscope to determine if the mites are present.
 
"If your child is presenting symptoms or has a confirmed case, we ask that you please keep your child home until they have been seen by their doctor and/or have received a prescription for treatment.
 
"Your child's doctor should also provide a note stating that the student was treated and is able to return to school.
 
"Products used to treat scabies are available only with a doctor's prescription. Over the counter products will not work. Please carefully read the directions on the cream or lotion package. Leave the cream or lotion on for the recommended time and then wash it off your child and have your child put on clean clothing. Treatment is also recommended for all members in the home at the same time as the infected child. Retreatment may be necessary in 2-4 weeks.
 
"All towels, bed linens, and clothing should be washed in hot, soapy water. Non-washable items can be disinfected in the dryer for 20 minutes on high, provided the heat will not damage the article. If items cannot be washed or dry cleaned, place them in a plastic bag for 14 days. Carefully vacuum all carpets and upholstered furniture.
 
"Your assistance in this matter is greatly appreciated and please do not hesitate to contact the school with any questions or concerns."

WPXI