Scabies is an infestation of the top layer of skin with a parasite, Sarcoptes Scabiei. The female parasite burrows underneath the skin and lays eggs, about 2 or 3 per day. Within ten days, the eggs have hatched, the mites have matured, and the females reproduce, laying more eggs under the skin.

The parasite is transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person. This includes, but is not limited to, sexual contact. Scabies can also spread through shared linens or furniture, especially if the exposure is for an extended period of time. Casual contact, such as shaking hands or hugging, is not a likely mode of transmission.

Limiting the number of sexual partners and avoiding direct contact with linens and furniture can prevent the spread of Scabies. While latex condoms are an ineffective means of preventing transmission of Scabies, they provide protection against many other Sexually Transmitted Infections, and should be used during sexual contact

Symptoms typically four to six weeks after infection with Scabies. Common symptoms include persistent itching that worsens at night, mite burrows in a zigzag pattern, and presence of pimple-like lesions. Sites for infection include the pubic area, webs of fingers or toes, armpits, bends of elbows or knees, navel, under the buttocks or breasts, and around the abdomen.

Aside from using the prescribed medication as directed, it is necessary to wash and dry all clothing and linens on the hot cycle. Items that cannot be laundered should be placed in a plastic bag for at least two weeks to ensure any mites on the items will not recontaminate the host person. Furniture and carpeting should be vacuumed, and the vacuum bag should be promptly disposed of. It is not necessary to fumigate living areas.