Scabies

Scabies mites (Sarcoptes scabiei) are parasites that need a human host in order to survive. The female parasite burrows under the top layer of the skin to lay her eggs. The skin becomes inflamed, red and swollen in response to the presence of the eggs, the mites themselves, and their wastes.

Scabies is spread by direct contact with a person or animal that is infected, and can also be passed on via the sharing of bedding, towels or clothes.

Talk to your doctor about preparations to eradicate scabies. Meanwhile, the following tips will help prevent re-infection:

• Wash all items that may be contaminated in hot soapy water. In addition to bedding, towels and clothing, don’t forget to wash pillows, hats, toys and furniture coverings.
• Put the washed laundry into the dryer on a high heat for at least 20 minutes.
• Wash combs and brushes in hot soapy water.
• Place any items that can’t be washed into airtight bags and leave them sealed for two weeks so that the mites die. In some cases it may also be appropriate to place plastic drop cloths over furniture (but don’t do this if there are toddlers in the house, as it may pose a suffocation risk to them).
• Vacuum carpets, furniture and mattresses and discard the vacuum bag immediately.
  

• Family members and people who’ve been in close contact with a person with scabies also need to be treated for the infection. Talk to your doctor for more information.