Scabies is a dermatological condition characterized by pimple-like skin irritations and itching. The condition occurs when the microscopic mite Sarcoptes scabiei burrows beneath the skin and lays eggs. The human scabies mite is closely related to the mites that cause sarcoptic mange in dogs and cats. This has led to the common misconception that humans can "catch" mange from animals. In reality, however, animal mites are unable to survive more than a couple of days on human hosts, says the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC.
According to MedlinePlus, scabies spreads quickly in places like child-care centers where skin-to-skin contact is frequent. Scabies can affect most areas of the body; however, infants and young children are more likely than adults to be affected on the soles, palms, neck, head and face.
Treatment for scabies involves the use of a scabicide, a type of medicine that kills scabies mites. Scabicides are only available by prescription; therefore, it is important to see a doctor at the first sign of infestation. (REFERENCE 2)
Step 1
Read all patient instructions, pamphlets and labeling associated with the scabicide.
Step 2
Bathe the child as usual, then dry with a clean towel. Set the towel aside to be laundered.
Step 3
Apply the medicine over the child's entire body, including the soles of feet, toes, palms and neck. When applying scabicide to the head--forehead, temples and scalp--avoid the eyes and mouth.
Step 4
Let the scabicide dry according to the product directions.
Step 5
Bathe the child thoroughly to remove all traces of scabicide. Dry off, then dress in clean clothes.
Step 6
Use a hot water cycle to wash the used towels and any contaminated clothes and linens. Dry the laundry on high heat for 20 minutes.
Tips and Warnings
- Los Angeles County's public health website recommends wearing a gown and gloves during application. Treat the infested child and other members of the household at the same time. This will help prevent reinfestation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even if the scabicide kills all the mites and eggs, it can take up to a month after treatment for itching to stop.
- Consult a doctor if itching and rash persist for more than a month. Additional scabicide treatments may be necessary.
Things You'll Need
- Scabicide
- 2 towels
- Gloves (optional)
- Gown (optional)
- Clean clothes
