Scabies Surveillance, Prevention & Control
Scabies is a contagious parasitic disease (infestation) of the skin caused by the human itch mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis. Scabies affects only humans and does not discriminate based on a socioeconomic level, gender, ethnicity, age, race, sexual orientation, or personal hygiene habits. Once a site is selected, the mite(s) secretes a saliva-like substance and uses its four stubby legs to burrow through the outer layer of the host’s skin. A fertile female can lay about three eggs each day. The eggs hatch in 3-4 days, producing larvae that migrate to the surface of the skin, dig another burrow and feed on intracellular fluids. Over the next 7-10 days, the larvae develop into sexually mature adult mites. This cycle is repeated many times during the 2-month lifespan of the female mite. Read the entire article: Management of Scabies in Long-Term Care Facilities, Schools, and other Institutions.
Lasalle County Illinois Health Department Management of Scabies in Long-Term Care Facilities, Schools and Other Institutions (PDF)