How Likely Am I to Get Scabies After Contact with an Infected Person? - Dermatology

More Info

---

Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite, is a highly contagious skin condition that spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. Given your situation, where you had prolonged contact with someone diagnosed with scabies, it is understandable to be concerned about the risk of infection.


Risk of Infection
The likelihood of contracting scabies after hugging an infected person depends on several factors, including the duration of contact, the presence of clothing barriers, and the overall health of your skin. In your case, you mentioned hugging the infected person for about 10 minutes and then for an additional hour and a half, both times while wearing different jackets. While wearing clothing can reduce the risk of direct skin contact, scabies mites can still transfer through clothing, especially if the clothing is in close contact with the skin.

Scabies mites can survive off the human body for a short period, typically 2 to 3 days, on surfaces like clothing, bedding, or furniture. However, they require a human host to reproduce and thrive. Therefore, if you had direct skin contact, there is a possibility of transmission, especially if the infected person had active lesions or was scratching.


Symptoms and Incubation Period
After exposure to scabies, symptoms may not appear immediately. The incubation period for scabies can range from 2 to 6 weeks for individuals who have never been infested before. If you have had previous exposure, symptoms may develop more quickly, sometimes within a few days. The primary symptoms of scabies include intense itching, especially at night, and a rash that may appear as small red bumps or blisters. The rash often occurs in specific areas such as between the fingers, on the wrists, elbows, armpits, and around the waist.

It is important to note that you will not be able to see the mites themselves, as they burrow into the skin and are microscopic. If you start to experience itching or a rash, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and potential treatment.


Preventive Measures
Since you have already taken a proactive step by washing with sulfur soap and taking a hot shower, you have minimized the risk of any mites that may have been on your skin or clothing. Here are additional preventive measures you can take:
1. Wash Clothing and Bedding: Ensure that any clothing, bedding, or towels that may have come into contact with the infected person are washed in hot water and dried on a high heat setting to kill any mites.

2. Avoid Close Contact: Until you are certain that you have not contracted scabies, avoid close contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable, such as young children or individuals with compromised immune systems.

3. Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye on your skin for any signs of itching or rash. If symptoms develop, seek medical advice promptly.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about potential exposure or if you develop symptoms, it is best to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment if necessary.


Conclusion
In summary, while there is a risk of contracting scabies from hugging an infected person, the extent of that risk depends on various factors. Monitoring for symptoms and taking preventive measures can help manage your risk. If you have any concerns or develop symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for appropriate care.