The Spectre of Scabies Haunts Sumadija Again

March 18, 2026

TL;DR

Over 100 foreign workers, primarily from Nepal, were initially reported to be infected with scabies at Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Srbija in Kragujevac.
Official figures later stated 24 foreign workers were infected, with approximately 100 close contacts placed in isolation.
Unlike previous incidents, there was no widespread panic among the local population, who have become accustomed to the presence of foreign workers.
The local health center reported around 500 cases of scabies in Kragujevac in 2025, indicating the disease is not unusual.
FCA Srbija temporarily suspended hot meals in factory canteens to avoid gatherings, providing sandwiches instead.
Concerns are raised about the state's oversight of labor agencies that bring foreign workers into Serbia, highlighting past issues like the treatment of Vietnamese workers at the Linglong tire factory.
The number of agency workers at FCA Srbija is reportedly double the legal limit of 10% of the total workforce.
Foreign workers are often housed in overcrowded conditions, with over 30 people per room and limited sanitation, leading to poor hygiene and health issues.
Representatives of the organization 'Nova svetlost' emphasize the need for state control over foreign worker treatment, ensuring European standards and fair wages to protect both foreign and domestic workers.
The increasing number of foreign workers in Serbia requires the state to address their challenges in domestic factories.

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