Gale Case Confirmed at Chaillots Nursery School in Sens City Implements Prevention and Information Protocol
Gale Outbreak Reported at Chaillots Nursery School in Sens
Understanding the Gale Outbreak
A case of scabies, commonly known as gale in French, has been identified at Chaillots Nursery School in the city of Sens. This mild skin condition is caused by a mite and spreads primarily through direct contact, although it can occasionally be transmitted via fabrics.
Upon confirmation of the case, the Direction des Affaires scolaires initiated a comprehensive action plan. This plan combines parent communication, enhanced hygiene measures, and preventive treatment of the school environment.
“Our priority is to swiftly halt the transmission chain while ensuring continuous service for families. The measures are tested, simple to apply, and effective when coordinated between the school and parents,” stated Pascale Larché, Deputy Mayor in charge of Education, Family, and Early Childhood.
Essential Measures for Families
- Regular hand washing with soap and water is crucial, as mechanical friction plays a vital role. Hydroalcoholic solutions are ineffective against scabies.
- Treat laundry that has been in contact with the body over the past 2–3 days by washing at 60°C, including sheets, pillowcases, towels, and worn clothes.
- For delicate textiles that cannot endure 60°C, use a pharmacy-bought acaricide spray and isolate in a sealed bag for at least three hours before washing. Alternatively, isolate the items in an airtight bag for a minimum of four to five days. Stuffed animals can be placed in the freezer (in a plastic bag) for three hours.
- If experiencing nocturnal itching, minor lesions, or suspicion, contact a doctor or pharmacist immediately. Family-wide treatment, if prescribed, should be conducted simultaneously.
School Measures to Ensure Safety
The school is implementing intensified daily cleaning of floors, bathrooms, and contact surfaces. Targeted disinfection with acaricide spray will be conducted in areas frequented by the affected child, following professional protocols.
To safely execute these operations, an exceptional closure of the school has been scheduled for Friday, October 10, as determined by the Direction des Affaires scolaires. Families have been notified through the ENT/SMS system.
For parents unable to arrange alternative childcare, the Maxime Courtis leisure center will provide accommodations, with practical information communicated directly to families.
Key Takeaways
- Scabies is not a sign of poor hygiene and can be effectively treated.
- Prevention hinges on regular hand washing and proper clothing management.
- Coordinated measures between the school and families are sufficient to halt transmission.
