Skin infestation caused by minuscule burrowing mites called Sarcoptes scabiei, signifies scabies. MayoClinic.com notes that any part of the body can be infested with these mites, but infestation is typically found between the fingers, around the arm and in the genital area. These areas are commonly exposed to other people, making the spread of scabies easy during person-to-person contact. Scabies is easily spread, and it is important to take precautions not only to prevent conditions permitting contraction of the condition, but also to prevent spreading the mites after diagnosed.
Close Contact
Direct and prolonged skin-to-skin contact with a person carrying scabies leads to contraction of the condition. A short handshake rarely leads to scabies; however, living in close quarters with an infected person increases risk. The Centers for Disease Control indicates that scabies in adults is typically acquired through sexual contact. Use of condoms may not prevent spread of scabies due to the mite burrowing in the skin on or around the genital area.
Infested Clothing
Untreated scabies lives on a person for up to two months. If a person is treated for the condition but does not take proper precautions with infested clothing, the mites can live on the clothing for up to three days. To prevent re-infestation, wash all clothing in the hottest water possible. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests after washing the clothing, dry in a dryer, or dry clean the clothing to further heat and kill the mites. Starving the mites also helps to prevent return of the condition. Placing clothing in a sealed plastic bag for a few weeks causes the mites to die.
Infected Bedding and Upholstery
Treating all members of the household and thoroughly washing all clothing is important in preventing the return of scabies. However, infested bedding and upholstery may also cause the condition to return. Wash bedding in the hottest water possible, dry clean or get rid of the bedding altogether. If upholstery cannot be deep steam cleaned, try vacuuming the furniture and the surrounding area. Throw away the vacuum bag immediately, outside of the household to prevent scabies from returning.
