The Resurgence of Victorian-Era Diseases in Modern Britain

In a startling turn of events, Britain is witnessing the return of diseases that were once thought to be relics of the past, reminiscent of the Victorian era. Factors such as declining vaccination rates, malnutrition, and significant cuts to public health spending are undermining decades of medical progress. This article delves into the alarming resurgence of these diseases, examining their causes and implications for public health.

The Return of Scabies and Other Skin Infestations

One of the most concerning indicators of this trend is the dramatic rise in cases of scabies, a parasitic skin infestation that was prevalent in Victorian workhouses. According to NHS figures, there were 3,689 diagnosed cases in hospitals in England in the year leading up to April 2024, a significant increase from 2,128 cases the previous year. Scabies, characterized by intense itching and a rash, often leads to social stigma and isolation, echoing the historical segregation of affected individuals in "itch" wards.

Scurvy: A Nutritional Deficiency Resurfaces

Days before the alarming scabies statistics were released, a case report in the BMJ highlighted the potential re-emergence of scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. A middle-aged man was treated for this condition, which manifests through symptoms such as bleeding gums and skin discoloration. While scurvy remains relatively rare, with only 171 cases reported last year, this figure marks a notable increase from just 63 cases in 2007-2008. The resurgence of scurvy underscores the critical link between nutrition and health, particularly in the context of rising living costs that make it difficult for families to access nutritious food.

The Alarming Rise of Sexually Transmitted Infections

The resurgence of Victorian-era diseases is not limited to scabies and scurvy. There has been a staggering increase in cases of syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that has seen a 149% rise among heterosexual men and a 121% increase among heterosexual women between 2021 and 2023. This surge is alarming, as syphilis can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Public health experts have pointed to the decline in funding for sexual health services as a contributing factor to this crisis.

Childhood Infectious Diseases on the Rise

Childhood infectious diseases, including measles and whooping cough, are also making a comeback. Recent data reveals 12,200 confirmed cases of whooping cough in England from January to July 2024, with nine reported infant deaths since November of the previous year. Measles, known for its highly contagious nature and potential complications such as encephalitis, has seen 2,465 confirmed cases since January. The decline in vaccination rates, particularly for the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, is a significant concern, with current uptake falling short of the World Health Organization’s target of 95% coverage for children under five.

Tuberculosis: A Slow Resurgence

Tuberculosis (TB), a disease that claimed the lives of one in seven people in England during the 19th century, is also creeping back into public consciousness. Provisional data from the UK Health Security Agency indicates a 7.5% increase in TB notifications in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. This rise is partly attributed to a rebound in access to diagnosis and treatment following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Underlying Causes of Disease Resurgence

The resurgence of these diseases can be traced back to several interrelated factors. One of the most pressing issues is the decline in vaccination rates. For instance, the uptake of the whooping cough vaccine among pregnant women is alarmingly low at around 60%. Additionally, the backlog of vaccinations caused by the pandemic has exacerbated the situation, leaving many children unprotected against infectious diseases.

The ongoing cost of living crisis has further compounded these issues, making it increasingly difficult for families to afford nutritious food and essential health services. The case of the man treated for scurvy illustrates this point; he ceased taking prescribed nutritional supplements due to financial constraints, leading to severe deficiencies.

Moreover, public health services in the UK have faced significant challenges due to funding cuts over the past decade. The public health grant allocated to local authorities for preventative health services has decreased by 28% in real terms since 2015. This reduction has severely impacted essential services, including sexual health clinics, which are struggling to provide adequate testing and treatment.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

The resurgence of Victorian-era diseases in modern Britain serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of public health systems. As vaccination rates decline, nutritional deficiencies rise, and public health funding diminishes, the consequences are dire. It is imperative for policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to come together to address these challenges. Investing in public health, ensuring access to nutritious food, and promoting vaccination are crucial steps in preventing further outbreaks and safeguarding the health of future generations. The lessons of the past must not be forgotten; the health of a society is only as strong as its commitment to the well-being of all its members.