Can You Catch Scabies from Someone Under Treatment? - Dermatology

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Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, is a highly contagious skin condition that can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing clothing, bedding, or towels with an infected person. When someone is undergoing treatment for scabies, they are typically prescribed topical medications such as permethrin cream or oral medications like ivermectin. These treatments are effective in killing the mites and alleviating symptoms, but there are important considerations regarding transmission.

If you have had contact with someone who is currently being treated for scabies, the risk of transmission largely depends on the nature and duration of that contact. Brief, casual contact, such as touching or hugging, is less likely to result in transmission compared to prolonged skin-to-skin contact. However, scabies mites can survive for a short period outside the human body, which means that if you handled the infected person's clothing or bedding, there is a potential risk of catching scabies.

The incubation period for scabies can be quite long, ranging from 2 to 6 weeks for someone who has never been exposed to the mites before. During this time, a person may not show any symptoms, but they can still spread the mites to others. If you are concerned about potential exposure, it is advisable to monitor for any signs or symptoms of scabies, which include intense itching, especially at night, and the appearance of a rash or small blisters.

In terms of whether you need to stop attending school or work, this decision often depends on the policies of your institution regarding contagious diseases. If you are asymptomatic and have only had brief contact with the infected individual, it is generally not necessary to stop attending school. However, if you develop symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly. Your healthcare provider may recommend treatment even if you do not have visible symptoms, especially if there is a high risk of transmission.

To minimize the risk of spreading scabies, it is important to practice good hygiene. This includes washing any clothing, bedding, or towels that may have come into contact with the infected person in hot water and drying them on a hot cycle. Vacuuming carpets and furniture can also help eliminate any mites that may have fallen off the skin.

In summary, while there is a risk of catching scabies from someone undergoing treatment, the likelihood depends on the type of contact you had with them. If you have concerns about your exposure, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and determine if any preventive measures or treatments are necessary.