Scabies

Scabies Latest News

According to the World Health Organization, scabies is one of the commonest dermatological conditions, accounting for a substantial proportion of skin disease in developing countries. 

About Scabies

• It is a contagious parasitic skin infestation that occurs in all parts of the world.
• Scabies is caused by a tiny bug, the Sarcoptes scabiei mite that burrows under the skin, causing an itchy rash.
• It is more common in hot, tropical countries like India.
• Occurrence of Scabies: It develops when the female mites (invisible to the naked eye) tunnel their way under the skin, where they live, lay eggs and excrete waste, spreading to other parts of the skin as well.
  • The mites generally live in the folds of the skin, and can be commonly found: between the fingers and toes, in the armpits, in the folds of the thighs and in the genital area, in the soles of the feet
• Transmission: Scabies spreads easily in crowded conditions and generally through close, direct contact with an infected person, and sometimes through shared clothing and bedding.
• Symptom: The most common symptom is an intense itchy rash that may become worse at night.
• Treatment: Treatment of scabies is usually with topical creams and oral medication. 
• The World Health Organization classified scabies as a neglected tropical disease due to its significant burden on impoverished and vulnerable populations

Source: TH

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