Scabies Mites
What is it?
Scabies is a skin infection caused by a mite. The mite lives on the surface and burrows down into the skin. Scabies causes a skin rash that itches intensely, especially at night. The rash can be found between the fingers, around the wrists, elbows, underarms, nipples, abdomen, waist, buttocks, penis, and feet.
In infants, the head, neck, palms, and soles may be involved. The rash typically starts as red bumps and white threadlike lines. The rash is extremely itchy and often gets covered with scratch marks and bruises. It may take 2-6 weeks for symptoms to appear if your child has never had scabies before.
How is it Spread?
Scabies is spread by skin-to-skin contact between people. The mites can also be shed onto clothes, towels, pillows, bedding, and furniture. They can spread when these items are shared. The mites can not live off the human body for more than 3 days. They can not reproduce off the body.
When is it contagious?
From when the child is infected by moites, even if they have no symptoms, until 24 hours after treatment begins.
How is it diagnosed and treated?
Scabies is diagnosed by the typical symptoms. Sometimes, a skin scraping may be examined under the microscope. Scabies are treated by applying a special insecticide body lotion. The body lotion is then rinsed off after a set period, depending on the medication used. Treatment is usually repeated after 7-10 days to kill any newly hatched mites. Consult your health care provider for the appropriate treatment; the medication can be dangerous for infants and women who are pregnant or nursing. After treatment, itching commonly persists for weeks. This does not necessarily mean that repeat treatment is necessary. Anti-itch lotions (e.g., calamine) or antihistamines might help relieve itching.
Should the child stay home?
A child with scabies should be sent home from the program and may return 24 hours after the treatment has started.