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Scabies

FACTS:

• Scabies are small mites that live under the skin. They are also called the Human Itch Mite.
  
• Symptoms are pimple-like irritations, red lines or rash of the skin.
  
• Children with scabies often have intense itching, especially at night and over most of the body.
  
• Some children will form sores on the body caused by scratching. These sores can become infected.
  
• Scabies are common in places where there are crowded conditions and direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact with a person already infested with scabies.
  
• Contact must be prolonged (a quick handshake or hug will usually not spread infestation). Infestation is easily spread. Infestation may also occur by sharing clothing, towels, and bedding.

TREATMENT:

• Medicated lotions are available to treat scabies.  
  
• Follow the directions given by the doctor for treatment.
  
• All clothes, bedding, and towels used by the infested person before treatment should be washed in hot water; dry in a hot dryer.
  
• No new burrows (red lines) or rashes should appear 24-48 hours after treatment.
  
• If new burrows, raised bumps and/or rash reappear then a second treatment with the medicated lotion may be necessary  (7-10 days later). The clothing, bedding and towels will all need to be rewashed in hot water.
  
• Pregnant women and children are often treated with milder scabies medications and may need to repeat treatment.
  
• Itching may continue for 2-3 weeks, and does not mean that the patient is still infested. A doctor may prescribe additional medication to relieve itching if it is severe.