Symptoms
The symptoms of scabies can take up to four to six weeks to appear after initial infection. The most common symptoms include intense itching, especially at night, and a rash made up of small, red bumps or blisters. The rash may appear in areas such as the wrists, fingers, elbows, armpits, and around the waist, but it can appear anywhere on the body. In children, the rash can also appear on the scalp, face, and soles of the feet.
Other symptoms that may occur in children with scabies include:
- Sores caused by scratching the itchy rash
- Scaling of the skin
- Swelling of the lymph nodes
- Crusty areas on the skin
Causes
Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which is a tiny, eight-legged creature that can only be seen with a microscope. The mite burrows into the top layer of the skin and lays its eggs, causing an allergic reaction that leads to itching and a rash. Scabies can be transmitted through close physical contact with an infected person or through sharing personal items such as clothing or bedding.
Risk factors for scabies include:
- Crowded living conditions
- Poor hygiene
- Lack of access to healthcare
- Exposure to infected individuals