ACRI joined the petition, led by Physicians for Human Rights, regarding the scabies epidemic raging in prisons. The petition, which was filed in mid-July 2024, is also shared by Adalah, HaMoked, and the Committee Against Torture.
In recent months, a widespread scabies epidemic has spread in prisons, especially in the security prisoners' wings, where overcrowding has increased considerably since the war. Scabies is an itchy and highly contagious skin disease and apart from the great suffering, in the absence of treatment it can lead to the development of infections and worsening existing skin diseases. Scabies can be easily treated with ointment and proper hygienic conditions, including frequent changes of bedding and clean clothes, disinfection of objects, frequent showers and separation of infected people.
The petition states that the Israel Prison Service claims to be dealing with the scabies crisis, but according to testimonies of lawyers who visited the detainees, the situation on the ground does not portray this sentiment and the epidemic is only intensifying. The organizations argued that the pandemic violates the detainees' rights to health and dignity and routine conduct within the prison walls, and is liable to spread outside the prison as well, and demanded that the Israel Prison Service act immediately to eradicate the epidemic in accordance with recognized professional principles.
HCJ 5908/24 Physicians for Human Rights v. Israel Prison Service
Attorney: Adi Lustigman (Lustigman & Blank Law Offices)
Petition (Hebrew)
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