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Scabies

August 2, 2011

Scabies

Scabies is a skin disease caused by a mite. Scabies can be “spread” from person to person by sharing clothes and bed linen. It can also be spread from one site to another by scratching. Common sites are between fingers, under the arms, breasts, elbows, genitals and buttocks.

Scabies appears as small itchy blisters in a line. The blisters break with scratching allowing mites and eggs to collect under fingernails and spread to a new site.

Treatment:
Lindane (Kwell) is the topical medication used to kill the mite and its eggs. All family members and sexual contacts should seek treatment.

Prevention:

  • avoid contact with persons, clothing, or linen that you suspect might contain mites and eggs

  • maintain good personal hygiene

  • bathe often (daily)

  • wash hands before eating

  • launder personal items regularly
Itching may persist despite effective treatment.

This information is provided only as an informational resource for consumers. For advice regarding a specific medical condition, please consult your personal physician.


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