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Infections & STDs

Scabies

Scabies is a common skin infection that causes small itchy bumps and blisters due to tiny mites that burrow into the top layer of human skin to lay their eggs.

The rash sometimes appear as short, wavy, reddish, or darkened lines on the skin's surface, especially around the wrists and between the fingers. A child who has contracted scabies can also develop a bumpy red rash.

HOW DO YOU GET IT?

Scabies is contagious, and is usually transmitted by skin-to-skin contact or through sexual contact with someone else who is infected with it. People with weakened immune systems and the elderly are at risk of a more severe form of scabies.

SYMPTOMS

• Pimple-like irritations, skin rash, especially the webbing between the fingers; the skin folds on the wrist, elbow, or knee; the penis, the breast, or shoulder blades.
• Intense itching, especially at night and over most of the body.
• Sores on the body caused by scratching. These sores can sometimes become infected with bacteria.

If you have any of these symptoms, please contact 132 Healthwise to arrange an examination and appropriate treatment .

Because scabies is sexually transmitted, it is recommended that a screen for other infections be performed during your examination or appointment.

If you think you need a test, please contact 132 Healthwise.