Scabies
(acariasis)

What is scabies?
Scabies is a parasitic disease of the skin caused by a mite (a very small spider-like insect) called Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites dig under the skin and cause intense itching, especially at night.

How do you get it?
Scabies is spread by close, person-to-person contact (including sexual activity), and by sharing clothing or bedding used recently by a person infested with mites.

What are the symptoms of scabies?
The most noticeable symptom of scabies is the intense itching it produces. The itching is most noticeable at the skin surface between the fingers, around the wrists, elbows, armpits, nipples, belt line, abdomen, genitals (sex organs), and lower buttocks.

When do symptoms start?
The itching usually starts 2 to 6 weeks after infestation with mites. Individuals who have had scabies previously develop symptoms earlier (in 1 to 4 days) following another exposure to the mites.

What is the treatment for scabies?
A mild case of scabies is treated by killing its mites with a single application of a medicated skin cream prescribed by your doctor. This is followed by a thorough bath using hot water and soap. The itching is caused by the body's reaction to the mite. Because itching may continue for days or weeks after adequate treatment, it should not be used as an indication that the medication did not work. Occasionally, a second application of medication is necessary 1 week after the first.

Should persons infested with mites be excluded from work or school?
Yes. Mite-infested persons are contagious until they receive treatment. Once treatment has started, however, they can return to school or work on the following day.

How can you keep from getting it?