Scabies is a contagious skin disease caused by a species of mite that is very small.
Alternative Names
Sarcoptes scabiei
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Scabies is found worldwide among people of all groups and ages. It is spread by direct contact with infected individuals and less often by sharing clothing or bedding. Sometimes whole families are affected.
The mites that cause scabies burrow into the skin and deposit their eggs, forming a characteristic burrow that looks like a pencil mark. Eggs mature in 21 days. The itchy rash is an
Mites may be more widespread on a baby's skin, causing pimples over the trunk, or small







