AN outbreak of scabies has been reported at a care home in Bolton.

Relatives have been advised not to visit residents at the Four Seasons in Breightmet Fold Road, Breightmet, after spread of the contagious skin condition, which is caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin.

One woman, who does not want to be named and is a family member of a resident who has mental and physical disabilities, says she is "blazing" about the situation.

The care home has confirmed that a "small number" of residents are receiving treatment for scabies.

The woman says her 57-year-old sister, who has very little mobility and has been there for four years, relies on daily visits from family members, including their elderly father, and will be confused as to why no one has been to see her.

She said: "No one has been able to visit her for more than a week now.

"She has no mobility and the only people she has contact with are her family.

"I'm absolutely blazing. People need to know about this.

"She has a loving family but no-one can see her. I want to go and put a little Christmas tree up like I do every year, as well as her cards, but I can't even do that.

"She'll be suffering but won't understand why no one is coming to visit her.

"She is only 57 but she has a number of health problems so the last thing she needs is to be left on her own a week before Christmas."

The concerned sister, who also lives in Breightmet, says the family was sent a letter with the instruction to buy cream to prevent the infection spreading "just in case".

She said: "They sent a letter saying we had to go to Boots and get this cream medication just in case we contracted it.

"It cost £10 and had to be rubbed into your whole body and you can't wash for 24 hours afterwards while it sinks into the skin.

"My sister can't wash herself and can't get up and visit anybody — she's on her own.

"Our poor dad has been to visit her every single day for the last four years. He doesn't know what to do with himself.

"The home just told me to phone each day for an update, but this isn't good enough."

A spokesman for the home would not say how long the quarantine was likely to last, but said: “The health, safety and wellbeing of all those we support is our top priority and we will always act promptly to ensure their comfort and health.

“I can confirm that a small number of residents are receiving treatment.

“We are working closely with the relevant authorities, including infection control and the GP, and would like to thank all residents and relatives for their support.”