BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jun 6, CMC – The Barbados government has “strongly” rejected what it terms “ recent exaggerated claims” regarding the scabies outbreak here, reaffirming that patients and healthcare workers safety remain top priorities.
Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei.. It’s characterized by intense itching, a pimple-like rash, and tiny burrows under the skin. The mites burrow into the skin, laying eggs, and their presence, and the body’s reaction to them, cause the characteristic symptoms.
“Scabies does not meet the threshold of a Public Health Emergency of National Significance, as there is no significant impact on the public or overwhelming strain on resources. There is no evidence of spread to schools, homes, or the general population.
“The situation remains controlled, and claims of the outbreak being first communicated via media are inaccurate. Internal protocols were followed, though we continue to improve communication,” the Ministry of Health and Wellness said in a statement.
It said nurses are the backbone of healthcare “and we value their commitment deeply. “Recruitment is fair and transparent, ensuring all foreign and local professionals meet the same standards. Claims that Barbadian nurses are sidelined are unfounded. All hiring decisions align with national healthcare needs.
“We firmly refute allegations that nurses were forced to work in unsafe conditions. Nurses are trained to manage infectious risks, and their safety is a top priority,” the ministry said, adding that assertions of systemic shortages like soap or essential supplies are false.
“Hospitals are stocked according to usage needs, and any isolated gaps are swiftly addressed. Claims of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shortages are also unfounded. Supplies, including gloves and gowns, have been provided, and infection control training continues regularly.”
The ministry said that due to temporary issues at the hospital laundry, linens are now processed off-site at certified facilities following infection control standards.
“Reports of bird droppings are acknowledged, but claims of dead birds in wards are unsupported. Allegations of rats in clinical areas remain unverified. Pest control measures are routinely enforced, and no environmental health risk is present,” the ministry said, noting that garbage disposal protocols are strictly followed and that any isolated issues are promptly resolved through facility management procedures.
“Infected and non-infected patients are not housed together. Proper isolation protocols are in place once cases are identified, with staff briefed to uphold these measures. Claims of mismanagement and neglect are untrue.
“Management responded swiftly to concerns by activating protocols and coordinating with the Ministry. There is no evidence of neglect. Budgets are reviewed by Parliament, and investment in healthcare infrastructure continues.”
The ministry said that as of June 5, 2025, there are 11 confirmed patient cases and that no official data supports claims of 24 patient cases or seven infected nurses.
“This is a dynamic situation. Infection control measures are active, and we remain confident in a responsible resolution. Contact tracing continues, and scabies —most often spread through prolonged contact — is likely introduced by external sources.”
The ministry said it is urging the public to “ignore misinformation and rely on official sources,” adding “we remain committed to the highest standards of care, safety, and accountability for all Barbadians”.
CMC/ag/ir/2025