“It’s a really, really, itchy condition. It drives people round the bend with the itch. So, it’s not of no consequence.”
Te Whatu Ora Waitaha has confirmed it’s seen an increase in cases across Canterbury and the West Coast over the last six to 12 months - with a high prevalence amongst tertiary students.
Infection Management clinical director Dr Sarah Metcalf said the issue isn’t isolated.
“From speaking with colleagues, I know that other centres in New Zealand are also seeing a lot of cases, and it has also been reported overseas so this is not just a New Zealand phenomenon,” Metcalf said.
In New Zealand, infections are primarily treated through a subsidised topical permethrin lotion.
But supply chain delays, combined with higher demand, means Christchurch pharmacies in student-dense areas are struggling to replenish their supplies.
Chambers said some patients are having to ring around pharmacies to find the medication, something the pharmacy connected to his clinic, in Riccarton, also had to do.
“It’s actually quite problematic because there’s quite a lot around, and there’s a lack of the usual effective treatment.”
The alternative, oral ivermectin, is only available on special authority.
Applicants need to meet particular criteria, and have its use endorsed by a microbiologist, dermatologist, or infectious diseases specialist to receive the subsidy.