Scabies

Scabies is a common disease caused by a microscopic mite that burrows into the skin. (Read about "Skin") This is called an infestation. According to CDC, the most common symptoms of a scabies infestation include:

• intense itching, especially at night
• small raised red bumps, blisters or rash (Read about "Skin Rash")
• skin abrasions from scratching or digging that can become infected

The areas of the skin most affected by scabies are the webbing between the fingers, around the wrists, elbows, knees, genitalia, breasts or shoulder blades. Scabies can infest people of any age, gender, race or level of cleanliness. CDC says the mites are spread by prolonged skin-to-skin contact. Casual contact like a handshake or a hug does not usually spread infestation. However, in crowded conditions like a nursing home or childcare center, scabies can be highly contagious and an infestation can spread quickly. Scabies can also be transmitted by sexual contact. (Read about "STD's") A doctor can diagnose scabies by looking at skin scrapings under a microscope. However, according to CDC, there are typically fewer than ten mites on the body of an infested person and it is still possible to have scabies even if a scraping is negative. Getting rid of the mites involves:

• prescription medications, creams or lotions such as permethrin cream
• washing all clothes, bedding and towels used before treatment and drying them in a hot dryer

CDC says a second treatment of cream or lotion may be necessary to get rid of the mites completely. The agency says itching could continue for 2-3 weeks following treatment even after the mite is gone. A doctor may prescribe additional medication to relieve the itch.