The scabies mite burrows under the skin. It can hardly be seen with the naked eye. It belongs to the same family as the spider. It is usually sexually transmitted, however, it can be passed from one to another through casual contact.
Common symptoms
Intense itching, usually at night
Small bumps or rashes that appear in dirty-looking, small curling lines, especially on the penis, between the fingers, on the buttock, breasts, thighs or around the waist
Often symptoms are not visible; may take several weeks for them to develop
How scabies is spread
Close personal contact
Bedding and clothing infected with the scabies mite
Diagnosis
Although people can diagnose themselves, diagnosis is often difficult
Microscopic examination of a skin scraping or biopsy by a clinician may be necessary
Treatment
Follow the directions on the package insert of a prescription medication such as Kwell or Scabene
Repeated neck to toe applications may be necessary
Everyone who may have been exposed to scabies should be treated at the same time
All bedding, towels, and clothing that may have been exposed should be thoroughly washed or dry-cleaned and the home should be vacuumed
Prevention and protection
Limit the number of intimate and sexual contacts
Hudson Health Center Athens, Ohio 45701 T: (740) 593-1660
