Scabies are microscopic mites that burrow into the skin and lay eggs.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of scabies are the following: (1) Rash in the area where the mites are feeding, typically around the genital area and breasts. (2) Intense itching. Small pimple-like bumps might also be visible where a mite is present under the skin.
Treatment
Treatments usually include a topical medication, such as creams that contain 5% Permethrin. But it is also necessary to wash all clothing and linens that could have come into contact with the mites because they can live up to 48 hours on bed sheets. It is possible for people to contract scabies non-sexually when they come in contact with clothing infested with mites. It is also a good idea for anyone who has been in close contact with the infected person to be treated as well.
© - Reproduced with permission of SexInfo, University of California at Santa Barbara, 2007.