Scabies is a severe skin condition that causes rashes, itching, and red bumps to appear on the skin. It is caused by itch mites that burrow and lay eggs under the skin. In most adults, even a few mites can trigger scabies. It usually takes a month to develop a rash after the mites lay their eggs in your skin. Scabies is most commonly transmitted by coming in contact with an infected person, bedding, or clothing. It is not actually caused by poor personal hygiene. Symptoms of scabies may include severe itching that gets worse at night and thin and irregular burrow tracks made up of tiny blisters or bumps appearing on the skin. Common causes and risk factors for scabies transmission may also include:
1. Existing virus or infection
Developing this infection is quite common and could happen to anyone. It is more likely to occur in people whose immune system is weak due to factors such as HIV, chemotherapy treatment, or severe natural deficiency. Light scabies involves a total of 12 to 20 mites in the body, while crusted scabies can mean more than a 1000 mites are present.
2. Environment
If you live in an environment with cramped living quarters, or don’t clean your home regularly, you may be more prone to this condition. Being exposed to dirty bedding or clothes for a prolonged period can also be risky.
3. Transmission via pets
Pets can transmit this parasitic infection to humans. Though there have been very few cases of transfer of scabies from pets to humans, it is a possibility. That is why it’s always important to take your pet to the vet if you suspect they may have scabies.
4. Mite infestation
The most common cause of scabies is mite infestation. When the infected person touches someone on their bare skin, they could transfer the condition. Scabies can also be spread by the mites themselves. Additionally, close contact with mite contaminated items could trigger the condition. It is important to note that if you have been a victim of scabies in the past, it is rare to have the condition again.
