Scabies..... xP

Scabies...what a horrible thing it is! Scabies is an easily spread skin disease caused by a very small species of mite. Scabies is found worldwide among people of all groups and ages. It is spread by direct contact with infected people, and less often by sharing clothing or bedding. Sometimes whole families are affected. Outbreaks of scabies are more common in nursing homes, nursing facilities, and child care centers. The mites that cause scabies burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs, forming a burrow that looks like a pencil mark. Eggs mature in 21 days. The itchy rash is an allergic response to the mite. Scabies is spread by skin-to-skin contact with another person who has scabies. Pets and animals cannot spread human scabies. It is also not very likely for scabies to be spread by a swimming pool or contact with the towels, bedding, and clothing of someone who has scabies, unless the person has what is called "crusted scabies".

Symptoms

• Itching, especially at night
• Rashes, especially between the fingers
• Sores (abrasions) on the skin from scratching and digging
• Thin, pencil-mark lines on the skin

Mites may be more widespread on a baby's skin, causing pimples over the trunk, or small blisters over the palms and soles.

• In young children, the head, neck, shoulders, palms, and soles are involved.
• In older children and adults, the hands, wrists, genitals, and abdomen are involved.  Prescription medicated creams are commonly used to treat scabies infections. The most commonly used cream is permethrin 5%. Wash underwear, towels, and sleepwear in hot water. Vacuum the carpets and upholstered furniture. Intense scratching can cause a secondary skin infection, such as impetigo, so if you get scabies, try not to scratch too much. :( I have this and it totally sucks. If you get any of the symptoms or are around someone with them, get treatment right away so you don't get them as well! They are beastly! :P Prevent scabies! D: