Scabies

What is it and how do you get it?

Scabies is a skin disease caused by a tiny parasitic mite that lives just under the surface of your skin. Scabies can be spread from any form of skin-to-skin contact and can also be caught from infested clothing, sheets, or towels.

How do you prevent it?

To prevent scabies you need to avoid contact with infected individuals. This can be difficult as they may be unaware that they have scabies. Good personal hygiene can also help prevent some cases of scabies.

How do you know you’ve got it?

Infestation with the parasite causes a red, bumpy, and very itchy rash in the affected areas, although you may notice it as small white bumps between your fingers. It is usually most noticeable around your arse, groin, ankles, waist, wrists, arm-pits, and between your toes or fingers.

A sexual health clinic will look for signs of scabies as part of a routine sexual health check-up.

How do you treat it?

Treatment consists of covering your whole body, except your head, with a lotion and leaving it on for 24 hours; plus washing all bedding, clothing, and towels in the hottest cycle of the washing machine. Even if the treatment is successful itching may continue for up to two week so, if you think you’ve caught it, see your pharmacist as quickly as you can. You can also get the lotion from GUM clinics.