Other Insect Bites

What is Scabies?

Scabies is an intensely itchy rash caused by a tiny bug called a mite. The mite is too small to be seen without magnification.  The rash usually involves the finger webs, the wrists, breasts, genital area, elbows, armpits and buttocks.  It is transmitted by close personal contact.  All members of your family and any sexual partners should be treated at the same time, regardless of whether they have a rash.

How Should I Apply the Medication?

First, trim all fingernails and toenails so the medication can be applied under and around the nails.

Apply prescription cream to dry skin in a thin layer and rub in thoroughly over the entire body including all skin folds and between fingers and toes.  Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use these medications without consulting their physician.

If thick crusted areas are present, take a warm bath followed by thorough drying before applying the medication.

If the cream is ineffective, it may be necessary to take Ivermectin (prescription required).  Your physician will let you know the number of pills to take.   These are usually taken in a single dose.  Each family member needs to take his or her dose at the same time.

You will be rechecked by your physician usually in two weeks.  Itching after treatment does not necessarily indicate treatment failure because some people develop allergic reactions to the embedded mite and this could be the cause of itching rather than active infection.  If persistent skin lesions are seen at one month after treatment, this is likely a reinfection or treatment failure, and retreatment of patient and all contacts is necessary.