SCABIES

Scabies is a skin condition caused by an infestation of tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow into the skin's top layer to lay eggs, which hatch within about three weeks. The visible burrows might resemble pencil marks, and the accompanying rash is an allergic reaction to the mites.

WHO GETS SCABIES?

Scabies is a global issue, affecting individuals of all ages, income levels, and social classes. It spreads quickly in crowded environments where direct skin-to-skin contact is common. Places like prisons, nursing homes, childcare centers, and dormitories are frequent sites of outbreaks. If one family member contracts scabies, it is common for the entire household to become infected. Transmission through shared clothing or bedding is possible but less common.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SCABIES?

Scabies primarily causes severe itching, especially at night, and a rash that includes tiny blisters or sores, which can worsen from scratching. Symptoms typically take 2 to 6 weeks to appear after the initial infection, but an infected person can transmit scabies even without symptoms.

In adults and teenagers, scabies is often found on the hands, wrists, abdomen, and genitals. In young children, the head, neck, shoulders, palms, and soles are more commonly affected. Infants might show more widespread symptoms across their torso. In elderly individuals or those with weakened immune systems, a severe form called crusted scabies or Norwegian scabies may develop, with thick crusts on the skin housing large numbers of mites.

Diagnosis can be confirmed by a healthcare provider through physical examination, skin scrapings examined under a microscope, or a skin biopsy.

HOW ARE SCABIES TREATED?

While there are no over-the-counter medications for eliminating scabies, home remedies can alleviate symptoms. All clothing, bed linens, and towels used by the infected person should be washed in hot water and dried on a high setting. Carpets and upholstered furniture should also be vacuumed. For symptom relief, soaking in a cool bath followed by applying calamine lotion can help. Oral antihistamines or topical steroids may also be used to manage itching.

Prescription treatments include scabicide lotions or creams, which are applied from the neck down and left on for a prescribed period to kill the mites and eggs. In severe cases, an oral medication, Ivermectin, might be prescribed. Using insecticide sprays or fumigators in the home or on the body is not recommended.