Scabies

What is it?
• Scabies is a highly contagious skin rash caused by the human itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei)
• The adult female scabies mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin where they live and deposit their eggs
• It causes intense itching which is often worse at night
• The rash can develop anywhere on the body but is found mostly on the hands, breasts, armpits, groin and waistline
• On a baby, the rash may be on the head, face, neck and body
• Scabies can be caught by anyone and has nothing to do with cleanliness

How is it spread?

• It is spread by direct contact ‐ from person to person ‐ particularly during prolonged skin to skin contact
with a person who already has scabies
• It can also be spread by sharing towels, clothing and bedding with someone who has scabies
• Scabies mites cannot jump or fly from one person to another

Where is it found?

• People are the main source for scabies infestation
• Infestation from animals is uncommon since animal mites do not typically replicate in humans

Prevention and control
• Early detection, treatment, and implementation of appropriate isolation and infection control practices are essential
in preventing scabies outbreaks
• Avoid prolonged skin‐to‐skin contact with anyone who has scabies
• Do not share towels, clothing or bedding with someone with scabies
• In an institutional setting like a hospital or long term care home, a person with scabies may be required to remain in
their room until 24 hours after completing scabies treatment
• Wear gloves and gowns when providing direct care to a person with scabies
• Clean hands well and often with alcohol‐based hand rub or soap and water
• Personal belongings and all bedding should be washed and dried on hot cycles or dry cleaned
• Vacuum carpeted floors and upholstered furniture thoroughly
• Treatment of scabies involves the application of creams or lotions that kill the mites
• Contact your health care provider or occupational health department if you think you may have scabies
• Always follow specific directions from your doctor or from your drug store
• Treatment of close contacts ‐ including household members and sexual partners ‐ is recommended