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Scabies
Health Services > Sexually Transmitted Infections > Scabies
Scabies are tiny mites that burrow under the skin, where the female lays her eggs. They are usually transmitted by sexual contact, but transmission may also occur through body contact or sharing clothing or bedding with an infected person. It is possible for scabies to affect an entire household.
Small bumps on the wrist, fingers or genitals, and itching that seems worse at night are the major symptoms. Scratching can cause raw skin and bacterial infections. People sensitive to scabies may develop reddish brown nodules a month or more after infestation begins.
A prescription cream or lotion usually kills scabies. Kwell (Lindane 1%), Elimite and Eurax are the most commonly prescribed solutions for the treatment of scabies. Sexual partners and close household contacts should also be treated. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants and children should not be treated with Lindane.
Bathe and dry thoroughly, then apply a thin coat of cream or lotion all over the body from the neck down. Wash off completely after eight hours, or as directed. One treatment usually eradicates scabies.
All clothing and bedding should be wither washed in hot water (125ºF) and dried in a hot dryer, dry cleaned or removed from body contact for at least 72 hours.
Scabies is fairly easy to cure, and reinfestation is unlikely if all affected people are treated at the same time. |
