Scabies
Scabies is a common skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin.
It can cause intense itching and a rash, particularly at night.
Key advice
Seek advice from your GP or pharmacist. Everyone in the household should usually be treated at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms.
What is scabies?
Scabies is an infestation of the skin caused by the human itch mite
Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. The mites are very small and burrow into the upper layer of the skin, where they live and lay eggs.
Scabies usually spreads through direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with someone who has scabies. It can also spread through shared clothing, towels or bedding.
Signs and symptoms
The most common symptoms of scabies are:
- intense itching, especially at night
- a raised or pimple-like rash
- small burrow lines on the skin
- sores caused by scratching
Symptoms may take up to 4 to 6 weeks to appear after first contact with scabies. If you have had scabies before, symptoms may appear within a few days.
What to do if you or someone in your household has scabies
Treatment advice
Treatment usually involves applying a cream or lotion to the whole body. Follow the instructions given by your GP, pharmacist or the product leaflet.
Apply treatment to clean, dry, cool skin. Do not apply treatment straight after a hot bath or shower. Reapply treatment to your hands every time you wash them during the treatment period.
A second treatment is usually needed 7 days after the first treatment.
Work, school and nursery
You or your child can usually return to work, school or nursery 24 hours after starting the first treatment.
After treatment
Itching may continue for a few weeks after successful treatment. Seek medical advice if new burrows or rashes appear, or if symptoms do not improve.
