Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by Sarcoptes scabiei. The World Health Organization calls it a neglected disease, affecting 200 million people each year. Though not deadly, it causes intense itching and skin rashes, especially at night. “These mites are most active while you sleep, crawling and burrowing into the skin.”

Symptoms include small red bumps, wavy lines, and blisters—often mistaken for eczema or hives. They usually appear between the fingers, on the wrists, or around private areas. “Scratching only makes things worse and can lead to skin infections.”

Scabies spreads through skin-to-skin contact and by sharing items like clothes or bedding. “Even very clean people can get infected.” Mites can survive up to 3 days on furniture and fabric.

Treatment includes applying permethrin 5% cream from neck to toes overnight and repeating in 7–10 days. “Everyone in your home should be treated at the same time.” Ivermectin pills may be used for severe cases.

To stop reinfection, wash bedding and clothes in hot water and vacuum thoroughly. “Treatment often fails because medicine is not applied properly.” Follow all instructions and seek medical help if symptoms persist after four weeks.