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Scabies in Humans
A microscopic mite called Sarcoptes scabiei is responsible for the disease we know as scabies. In humans, the most characteristic sign of an infestation is a rash. It may be mild at first, with itching only at night, but can soon develop into pimple-like burrows on the skin, scaling, redness, and sores.
Scabies is transmitted primarily through prolonged skin-to-skin contact. It can also occur when towels, bedding, or clothing is shared with someone who is infested. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment generally involves medication and thoroughly cleaning linens, clothes, and bedding in a washing machine with hot water.
(Click Scabies to learn more about how humans get this disease, how it is diagnosed, and if there is a home remedy.)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD