Algoma Public Health

Scabies

A parasitic disease of the skin caused by a mite that can only be seen with a microscope.

The mites burrow into the skin and cause a very itchy rash.
The rash looks like curvy white threads, tiny red bumps, or scratches and can appear anywhere on the body.
Commonly found between fingers, on wrists and elbows, under the arms and around the belt line.
In infants only, may be found on the head, neck, palms and soles.
Commonly found on thighs and external genitalia in men.
Commonly found on nipples, abdomen and the lower portion of the buttocks in women.
Sometimes the rash looks very severe, e.g. crusting, scabbing and blistering.

Sault Ste. Marie: 705-942-4646

Blind River: 705-356-2551

Elliot Lake: 705-848-2314

Wawa: 705-856-7208

Within 2 to 6 weeks after being in contact with an infected person.
People who have been previously infested develop symptoms 1 – 4 days after re-exposure.

By direct skin-to-skin contact.
Transfer from undergarments and bedclothes occurs only if these have been contaminated by infested people immediately beforehand.
Can be acquired during sexual contact.

Until mites and eggs are destroyed by treatment.
This is usually accomplished with 1 treatment.
Children with scabies should not attend school/daycare until 1 treatment is received.

With a prescribed lotion or cream.
A second application of treatment may be necessary after an interval of 7-10 days.
All household members who have direct skin to skin contact should also receive treatment.
Itching may persist for 1 – 2 weeks after treatment.

After the cream or lotion is washed off change into fresh clothes and change the bed linens.
Do not share your facecloth or towel.
After treatment observe rash for the next week.
If the rash is still spreading refer to the product directions regarding repeat of the treatment.

For further information contact the Communicable Disease Control Program at 705-942-4646 or toll free at 1-866-892-0172.

Date of Creation: June 1, 2015

Last Modified: Feb 25, 2016