Sarcoptes scabiei infestation FAQ
What is scabies?
Scabies is a skin infestation caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, leading to intense itching and a pimple-like rash.
How is scabies transmitted?
Scabies is spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
What are the common symptoms of scabies?
Common symptoms of scabies include itching, rash, and sores caused by scratching.
How is scabies diagnosed?
Scabies is often diagnosed through a physical examination and skin scraping to identify the mites, eggs, or fecal matter.
What is the treatment for scabies?
Treatment for scabies typically involves prescribed scabicides such as permethrin cream or oral ivermectin.
How long does it take to get rid of scabies?
With proper treatment, itching may continue for 2-3 weeks, but it should gradually decrease as the infestation is eliminated.
Can scabies infestation reoccur?
Reinfestation can occur if the mites and their eggs are not completely eliminated, or through close contact with an infested person or their belongings.
Is scabies contagious?
Yes, scabies is highly contagious and can spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual.
Can scabies infest pets?
Scabies in humans is caused by a different type of mite than scabies in animals, but it can still cause itching and rashes in humans, though it does not infest or spread between people and pets.
Can scabies be prevented?
Preventive measures include avoiding prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infected person and refraining from sharing personal items such as clothing, towels, or bedding.
At what age can scabies occur?
Scabies infestation can occur at any age, but it is more common in children and the elderly due to their weaker immune systems.
What areas of the body are most commonly affected by scabies?
Scabies infestation often affects the folds of the skin, such as between the fingers, wrists, elbows, knees, buttocks, and shoulder blades.
Can scabies cause complications?
Scratching the itching skin can cause sores, and if left untreated, scabies can lead to bacterial skin infections.
Is it necessary to treat all family members if one person has scabies?
It is recommended to treat all household members and close contacts to prevent reinfestation, even if they do not show symptoms.
Can scabies infestation disappear on its own?
Scabies infestations will not resolve without medical treatment. The infestation and symptoms may worsen over time if left untreated.
What should be done if scabies symptoms persist after treatment?
If symptoms persist after treatment, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.
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Information provided by Dr. Tekeste Etay Teka. Reviewed by Dr. Mohamed El Khouly