Scabies Transmission: Common Questions Answered

Scabies transmission issues?

1.
If the clothing of a scabies patient is soaked in water above 60 degrees Celsius for ten minutes and then washed and dried, and the dryer is subsequently used by someone who is not infected, the general user is unlikely to contract scabies.
2.
If a scabies patient has taken a shower and someone else uses the same water, hairdryer, or other items afterward, there is a low risk of transmission, as scabies is primarily spread through direct skin-to-skin contact.
3.
According to the skin expert health website recommended by you, scabies mites are typically transmitted through close personal contact or sexual activity.
Clothing and bedding infested with scabies mites can also spread the infestation.
If a mother is currently in the incubation period and washes family members' clothes separately (with her own clothes treated separately), it is possible for her to transmit scabies to family members through her hands if she has asymptomatic mites present, even if she does not exhibit itching or symptoms.

QQ, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
Possible
2.
Unlikely
3.
Possible

Reply Date: 2016/06/07

More Info

Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, is a highly contagious skin condition that spreads primarily through direct skin-to-skin contact. Understanding the transmission of scabies is crucial for preventing outbreaks and protecting individuals from infection. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Can a person get scabies from clothes that have been soaked in hot water?
If a scabies-infected person's clothing is soaked in water above 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit) for at least ten minutes, this should effectively kill the mites. After this treatment, if the clothing is washed and dried properly, it should not pose a risk of transmission to others. However, if the drying machine is subsequently used by someone else who has not been in contact with the infected person, the risk of transmission is minimal. The key factor is that the mites cannot survive long outside of human skin, and proper washing and drying should eliminate any potential risk.

2. Can someone get scabies from using a bath or hairdryer after an infected person?
Scabies mites do not survive long outside of their human host, typically only a few days. Therefore, using a bath or hairdryer after an infected person is unlikely to result in transmission. The mites require close physical contact to spread effectively. However, it is always advisable to maintain good hygiene practices, such as cleaning shared items and avoiding direct contact with personal items used by an infected person.

3. Is it possible for a person in the incubation period to transmit scabies through handling clothes?
The incubation period for scabies can range from 2 to 6 weeks, during which an individual may not exhibit symptoms but can still harbor the mites. If a person is in this asymptomatic phase and handles clothing, there is a potential risk of transmission if the mites are present on the clothing. However, the likelihood of transmission through handling clothes is significantly lower compared to direct skin-to-skin contact. It is important for individuals who suspect they may have been exposed to scabies to take precautions, such as washing their clothing and bedding in hot water and avoiding close contact with others until they have been evaluated by a healthcare provider.

In summary, scabies is primarily transmitted through direct contact, and while there are some risks associated with handling contaminated clothing or items, proper hygiene practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of transmission. If you suspect you have been exposed to scabies or are experiencing symptoms such as intense itching, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further spread and alleviate discomfort.

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