Scabies
Scabies is a skin infestation caused by tiny mites that burrow into the top layer of skin. Scabies symptoms include intense itching, worse at night, and a pimple like rash. It is very treatable with prescription cream or pills.
What Is It
Scabies spreads through close skin contact, and sometimes through shared bedding or clothing. It is common in households, daycares, nursing homes, and college dorms. It has nothing to do with being clean. Symptoms can take 4 to 6 weeks to appear after the first exposure.
Symptoms
- Intense itching, worse at night
- A pimple like or blister like rash
- Thin, wavy lines on the skin from burrows
- Rash between fingers, on wrists, elbows, waist, and armpits
- Sores from scratching
- Several people in a home itching at once
Not sure it’s scabies? Itchy, dry patches that come and go may be eczema. Raised welts that move around are more likely hives.
Treatment
At your visit: A provider examines the rash and looks for burrows. Scabies is treated with a prescription cream or pills that kill the mites. Everyone in the household and close contacts should be treated at the same time.
At home:
- Apply the cream from the neck down and leave it on as directed
- Wash bedding, towels, and clothes in hot water and dry on high heat
- Seal items that cannot be washed in a bag for 3 days
- Treat all household members at the same time
Itching can last 2 to 4 weeks after treatment, even after the mites are gone.
When to Get Care for Scabies
Most scabies cases can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.
FAQ
What are the first signs of scabies?
The first signs of scabies are intense itching, worse at night, and small red bumps, often between the fingers, on the wrists, or around the waist.
How do you get scabies?
Scabies spreads through close, prolonged skin contact with someone who has it. It can also spread through shared bedding, towels, or clothing.
Is scabies contagious?
Scabies is contagious until treatment is complete. Children can usually return to school the day after treatment. Wash bedding and clothing in hot water on the day of treatment.
How long does scabies itching last after treatment?
Itching can last 2 to 4 weeks after scabies treatment. This is a reaction to dead mites, not a sign treatment failed.
Can urgent care treat scabies?
Yes, urgent care can diagnose and treat scabies. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the rash and discuss treatment for your household. No appointment or referral is needed.
Do I need to clean my whole house for scabies?
You do not need to deep clean your whole house for scabies. Wash bedding, towels, and recent clothes in hot water, and vacuum furniture.
Last reviewed October 2026
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