SCABIES
Scabies is caused by the mite Sarcoptes Scabiei. These mites travel very slowly on the skin and in keeping with pubic lice, they can have a long incubation period of up to six weeks. They are often transferred from person to person by close physical contact but can also cause outbreaks in non-sexual circumstances i.e. in schools and nursing homes.
The typical symptom of scabies infestation is an intense itch, which some people say is unbearable. This can be worse at night. The female of the species burrows into the skin and lays eggs as well as defecating. The burrows are usually visible to the naked eye and are silvery red in colour. The mite excrement causes a "hypersensitivity reaction" in the skin, which is responsible for the characteristic itch.
It is worth noting that the location of the burrows on the skin bears no location to where exactly the infestation was acquired.
The treatment of scabies is very similar to that for pubic lice. Malathion lotion is again applied. Once again, bed linen and towels must be washed at a high temperature and close physical contacts must also be treated. If the itch persists after treatment, which is a common occurrence, the best treatment is with an antihistamine tablet, rather than re-application of the Malathion which can result in further skin irritation.