Scabies

Also called sarcoptes scabiei or sarcoptic mange

Published
December 09, 2024
Last updated
May 17, 2024

About Scabies

The scabies mite, Sarcoptes scabiei, is an ectoparasite that burrows into the upper layer of the skin and deposits eggs. The most common symptoms of scabies are intense itching and a pimple-like skin rash. An exposed individual can be infectious to others, even in the absence of symptoms. 

Scabies can spread rapidly, including in healthcare facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals, causing outbreaks which can be difficult to control if not caught early.

Crusted scabies is a severe form of scabies that can occur in some persons who are immunocompromised, elderly, disabled, or debilitated. 

Crusted scabies may be associated with atypical signs or symptoms and is highly contagious. Persons with crusted scabies should receive quick and aggressive medical treatment for their infestation to prevent outbreaks of scabies.

Crusted scabies is a severe form of scabies that can occur in some persons who are immunocompromised, elderly, disabled, or debilitated. 

Crusted scabies may be associated with atypical signs or symptoms and is highly contagious. Persons with crusted scabies should receive quick and aggressive medical treatment for their infestation to prevent outbreaks of scabies.

Resources, Guides, Reports, & Toolkits

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Featured New Updated

Strategies for Scabies Outbreaks in Institutional Settings

By CDC

Public Health strategies for scabies outbreak response in long term care and other congregate settings

Featured New Updated

Strategies for Crusted Scabies Outbreaks in Institutional Settings

By CDC
Health Departments

Public Health strategies specific to outbreaks of CRUSTED scabies

New Updated

Scabies Toolkit: Healthcare Settings

By Los Angeles County Dept. of Public Health

Toolkit to help healthcare facilities manage scabies outbreaks and train staff on identification, transmission, and treatment of scabies.

Scabies Outbreak Reports & News

American Journal of Infection Control

A scabies outbreak in an inpatient rehabilitation setting

Jun 14, 2023