Introduction

Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. These mites burrow under the skin, causing strong itching and a rash. 

Scabies spread through close contact and sharing bedding and towels, usually within a household. Anyone can get scabies, and it is not a sign of poor hygiene. It is more common in school-aged children and elderly adults. 

Scratching scabies can cause tears in the skin and lead to infections like impetigo or school sores, so it's important to get treatment as soon as possible.

Symptoms can include:

• itching - especially at night and after hot baths
• bumps, blisters, or raised scratches on the skin
• in babies, a rash on the palms, soles of the feet and scalp.

Symptoms can show up on the skin in areas like:

• armpits
• between fingers and toes
• wrists
• elbows
• the bottom
• the groin.

Your local doctor can diagnose scabies based on your signs and symptoms.

Scabies can spread easily, so everyone in your household should be checked.

Your child’s doctor may prescribe a cream, like permethrin, to treat the scabies.

Before your child goes to bed, apply the cream to their entire body from the neck down, including areas that are not itchy, like:

• elbows
• nipples
• the penis or vulva
• hands
• feet
• under finger and toenails.  

The cream must be left on for at least eight hours before it is washed off. If it is washed off the hands during the treatment time, it must be reapplied. Repeat this in seven to ten days or as directed by your child’s doctor.

Some young children and family members may need treatment with anti-parasite tablets. Everyone in the household should be treated at the same time, even if they are not itchy.

Speak to your local doctor about the most suitable treatment and directions for your child and family.