How Many Days Should Family Members Take Preventive Medication for Scabies? - Dermatology

More Info

---

When dealing with a scabies infection in the family, it is crucial to understand both the treatment for the infected individual and the preventive measures for other family members. Scabies is caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, which burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash. It is highly contagious and can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing clothing, bedding, or towels.

In your case, since one family member has been diagnosed with scabies, it is essential to take preventive measures for the rest of the family. Here’s a comprehensive approach to managing the situation:
1. Treatment for the Infected Individual: The person diagnosed with scabies should follow the treatment prescribed by their physician. This typically involves the application of a topical scabicide, such as permethrin cream or benzyl benzoate, which is applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for a specified duration (usually 8-14 hours) before washing off. It is crucial that this treatment is followed precisely to ensure the mites are eradicated.

2. Preventive Measures for Family Members: For family members who have not shown symptoms, preventive measures are still necessary. Here are the recommended steps:
- Topical Treatment: Family members should also apply the same topical treatment as the infected individual, even if they do not have symptoms. This is typically done at the same time as the infected person’s treatment to prevent any potential spread.

- Laundry: All clothing, bedding, and towels used by the infected person should be washed in hot water and dried on a hot cycle. Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours, as the mites can survive without a host for a limited time.

- Cleaning: Vacuum the house thoroughly, especially areas where the infected person has spent time. This includes carpets, furniture, and any shared spaces.

3. Duration of Preventive Measures: The preventive treatment and cleaning should ideally be done simultaneously with the infected individual’s treatment. After the initial treatment, family members should continue to monitor for any signs of scabies for at least two weeks. If symptoms develop, they should seek medical attention promptly.

4. Reapplication: In some cases, a second application of the scabicide may be necessary after one week, especially if there are still signs of itching or rash. This is because the treatment may not kill all the mites or their eggs in one application.

5. Avoiding Contact: During the treatment period, it’s advisable to minimize close contact with the infected individual to reduce the risk of transmission.

6. Follow-Up: If any family member develops symptoms such as intense itching, rashes, or sores, they should consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible treatment.

In conclusion, while the sulfur baths you mentioned can help alleviate symptoms and may have some efficacy against the mites, they should not replace the medical treatment prescribed for scabies. It is essential to follow the treatment guidelines closely and take preventive measures seriously to ensure that the infection does not spread within the household. If you have any concerns or if symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further guidance.