Scabiesis an intensely itchy skin condition sparked by a parasite calledSarcoptes scabieifound all over the world.
Cause of Scabies
Scabies is brought on by the femaleSarcoptes scabieimite.
The hatching triggers symptoms likepruritus(itchiness) as well as a papular (pimple-like) rash.
Illustration by Joshua Seong. © Verywell, 2018.
The femaleSarcoptes scabieimite lives for around eight weeks and can continue to lay eggs the entire time.
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Scabies is most often passed through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with someone with scabies.
In adults, scabies is often transmitted bysexual partners.
Contact through professional massage can also potentially transmit the parasite from one person to the next.
Fomite Transmission
A scabies infestation often affects the home as well as households.
Contact with these items can independently cause scabies.
Even if a person istreated for scabies, they can still get reinfected unless these items are properly sanitized.
Vacuuming of furniture and carpets is also recommended.
The fumigation of rooms is not necessary.
When a person’s immune system is impaired, the body is less able to fight infections.
Norwegian scabies may involve more than 1,000 mites.
Because of this, Norweigan scabies is easier to pass simply by virtue of their numbers.
This includes the transmission of scabies through infested clothes, bedding, and towels.
Transmission ofSarcoptes scabieigenerally requires prolonged exposure.
Some people associate scabies with a lack of hygiene.
The simple fact is that poor hygiene does not cause scabies, and cleanliness does notprevent scabies.
This is because the mites live deep within the skin and cannot be washed off.
Having scabies simply means that you have been in close contact with someoneor somethingthat has scabies.
What About Pets?
While pets can spread certain parasites to humans,Sarcoptes scabieiis not one of them.
Who Gets Scabies?
Certain people are at greater risk of scabies than others due to their living situation or their job.
Environment
Scabies is known to spread among people who live in crowded quarters.
Severe outbreaks are possible in nursing homes because residents are older and more likely to get Norwegian scabies.
Wearing gloves and other protective coverings in these configs may decrease the chances of getting or passing scabies.
Summary
Scabies is caused when the femaleSarcoptes scabieimite burrows into your skin and lays eggs.
People who live in crowded quarters or are caregivers in places like nursing homes are at greater risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
No.
No, but it’s a good idea to clean your mattress.
Steam cleaning is not necessary.
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