Information on Scabies (Itch Mites)

What is scabies?
Scabies is a parasitic infestation of the skin caused by a mite (Sarcoptes scabiei) which penetrates the top layer of a person's skin. The female mite burrows under the surface of the skin and lays her eggs which causes intense itching. The itching is usually most severe at night. Scabies infection can also be accompanied by a rash and/or skin eruptions in the areas of the infestation. In healthy individuals there are very few complications from scabies. The most common problem is secondary bacterial infections caused by scratching.

How can a person tell if they have scabies?
The mite burrows are often visible as white or grey, thread-like tunnels under the skin. The most common areas where burrows are found are:

• Men between the webs of the fingers, the inside of the wrists, elbows and arm pits, beltline, thighs, ankles and genitals;
• Women the nipples, abdomen and lower portion of the buttocks;
• Infants the scalp, neck, palms and soles of the feet.

How is scabies transmitted?
The scabies mite is transmitted by prolonged skin to skin contact or during sexual contact. The mite can be transferred on underwear or bed clothes which have been used immediately beforehand by an infested person.

How long before symptoms appear?
In people who have never had scabies before, itching usually starts from 2 to 6 weeks after being infested. Persons who have had scabies previously and are re-infested will develop symptoms in 1 to 4 days.

How can scabies infestation be prevented?
Preventively treat those who have had skin to skin contact with infested people.

How is scabies treated?
See your doctor.

• Scabies can be treated by applying an appropriate scabicide cream or lotion. The most effective treatments are prescription medications. The most common treatment for children is a lotion containing 5% permethrin. Adults may use the permethrin treatment or alternatively a 1% lindane lotion. Lindane is not recommended for pregnant women or very young children. Be sure to carefully follow the directions provided by your physician. Itching may last for up to 2 weeks after successful treatment. Secondary infections caused by scratching should be treated with antibiotics.
• Isolate infested individuals until the day after treatment (including family members and sexual contacts.)
• Clothes or bedding used up to 3 days before treatment should be laundered in hot, soapy water and dried in the hot cycle of the dryer.

For more information contact your physician or local health department.