Scabies

What Increases Your Risk

The following groups of people are at higher risk of exposure to scabies mites:

  • Sexually active young adults. Close skin-to-skin contact (not specifically sexual intercourse) makes transmission of the scabies mites more likely.
  • People who live or work in institutions such as nursing homes, homes for the developmentally disabled, and prisons.
  • People who live in crowded conditions.
  • Children from developing countries.

People who have weakened immune systems, such as from HIV, and those who are unable to communicate about their physical symptoms are at risk for developing severe, difficult-to-treat cases of scabies, particularly crusted (Norwegian) scabies.


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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Last Updated: March 30, 2009
Medical Review: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology

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Topic Contents
 Topic Overview
 Cause
 Symptoms
 What Happens
Arrow PointerWhat Increases Your Risk
 When To Call a Doctor
 Exams and Tests
 Treatment Overview
 Prevention
 Home Treatment
 Medications
 Surgery
 Other Treatment
 Other Places To Get Help
 References
 Credits