What is Scabies?

In the most simple of terms, scabies is a rash. Scabies occurs when a mite, known as a Sarcoptes scabei, burrows underneath the skin. Once the mite has lodged itself into the skin, it causes an allergic reaction, which ultimately leads to the signature rash of scabies. Scabies is most commonly contracted by close contact with an individual that already has scabies, but can also be a result of touching an item, such as a towel or sheet, that a mite is living on. This is a much less common method of transmission, mainly because a mite can not live for more than two days away from human skin.

The easiest way to avoid getting scabies is by staying away from any individual who currently has scabies. Although this may seem easy enough, it becomes a much more difficult challenge when a family member or close friend is the one with scabies. Because of the nature of their environment, children and teachers of younger children are at an especially high risk of contracting scabies. Case of scabies in younger children are normally relatively difficult to handle because of the child's inability to refrain from scratching their rash. In addition to teachers of young children, anyone in the healthcare field should always take extra precaution when interacting with a person that may have a case of scabies. Simple rubber gloves can go a long way in ensuring that you do not contract scabies from any of your patients.

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