What are scabies? How are scabies transmitted? What are the symptoms of scabies? How does an HIV/AIDS infection interact with scabies? How are scabies diagnosed? Is there a treatment for scabies? What are the causes of treatment failure? Who are at risk of contracting scabies? How can people with scabies prevent transmission?

Scabies are transmitted in a fashion similar to crabs – frequently as a sexually transmitted infection (penetration is not required). In addition, this infection can spread readily and rapidly in closed environments (where there is close and/or prolonged contact) such as daycare centers, schools and nursing homes.

What is the lifecycle of scabies?

The female mite is drawn to the warmth of a potential host. She penetrates the skin and burrows in and begins to lay eggs (approximately 1-3 eggs per day). The presence of these eggs produces an inflammation similar to an allergic reaction – this is responsible for the intense itchiness. The eggs then hatch, mature into larvae and begin a new life cycle. Without treatment she can procreate for 5 weeks.