Scabies: Transmission, Prevention, and Treatment Tips

Scabies mite

Can a person get scabies from sitting in a place where an infected person has been, or is it more likely to be transmitted through close contact with the patient? Also, should bed linens be changed after each use or only after all cleaning is completed? Lastly, does using a high-temperature dryer really kill scabies mites? Thank you.

Mr. Wang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/12/14

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology

A person with a normal immune system typically has only a few mites, around a dozen, on their body.
The likelihood of getting infested by sitting in a place where an infested person has been or by touching them is quite low.
However, patients who are bedridden and have limited mobility can develop crusted scabies, which is an exception, as they can have a large number of mites on their skin.
It is advisable to change the bed linens that have been slept on, and to wash everything thoroughly before changing again.
Using a large American dryer is generally less problematic, while using a Taiwanese dryer should involve drying the items longer to ensure they are completely dry and not taken out while still damp or cool.

Reply Date: 2005/12/14

More Info

Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, is a highly contagious skin condition characterized by intense itching and a rash. Understanding its transmission, prevention, and treatment is crucial for managing outbreaks and protecting those at risk.

Transmission of Scabies
Scabies is primarily transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with an infested person. This means that casual contact, such as hugging or sharing a bed, can lead to transmission. However, it is also possible to contract scabies from contaminated surfaces or items. For instance, if a person with scabies sits on a chair or uses bedding, the mites can survive for a short time on these surfaces. Therefore, while sitting in a place previously occupied by a scabies patient may pose a risk, the likelihood of transmission is significantly lower compared to direct skin contact.

Prevention Strategies
To prevent the spread of scabies, it is essential to practice good hygiene and take specific measures:
1. Avoid Close Contact: Limit skin-to-skin contact with individuals known to have scabies until they have been treated effectively.

2. Wash Bedding and Clothing: It is advisable to wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used by an infested person in hot water and dry them in a hot dryer. This process helps eliminate any mites that may be present.

3. Vacuuming: Vacuuming furniture and carpets can help remove any mites that may have fallen off the skin or clothing.

4. Isolation of Infested Items: Items that cannot be washed should be sealed in a plastic bag for at least 72 hours, as mites cannot survive long without a human host.

Treatment of Scabies
Treatment typically involves the use of topical scabicides, such as permethrin cream or lindane lotion, which are applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for a specified period before washing off. Oral medications, like ivermectin, may also be prescribed in severe cases or for widespread infestations.

Specific Questions Addressed
1. Can Scabies be Transmitted from Surfaces?: While it is possible for scabies mites to survive on surfaces for a limited time, the risk of transmission from sitting on a chair or using bedding previously occupied by an infested person is much lower than direct contact. However, it is still advisable to wash or vacuum these items to minimize any risk.

2. Changing Bed Linens: When changing bed linens, it is best to wash them immediately after the infested person has been treated. If you are cleaning multiple items, it is advisable to wash them all at once to ensure that any potential mites are eliminated.

3. Effectiveness of High-Temperature Drying: Using a dryer on high heat is indeed effective in killing scabies mites. The heat from the dryer can reach temperatures that are lethal to the mites, making it a reliable method for decontaminating clothing and bedding.

In summary, scabies is primarily transmitted through direct contact, but precautions should be taken regarding contaminated surfaces. Regular washing of linens and clothing, along with high-temperature drying, can significantly reduce the risk of transmission. If you suspect you have scabies or have been in contact with someone who has, it is essential to seek medical advice for appropriate treatment.

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