## What is Scabies?

Scabies is a contagious skin infection that is caused by tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei. These microscopic mites burrow into the top layer of the skin and lay eggs.

The presence of the mites and their waste products under the skin causes severe itchiness, which can be much worse at night. The urge to scratch can be intense.

Scabies spreads rapidly under crowded conditions where close body contact is frequent. The mites can spread quickly to sexual partners, housemates, and within institutions like nursing homes, hospitals, childcare facilities, and prisons.

Scabies is found worldwide and affects people of all races and social classes. It has nothing to do with cleanliness or personal hygiene. Even the cleanest people can get scabies.

## Symptoms of Scabies

The most common symptom of scabies is an extremely itchy rash. The itching tends to be worse at night and after hot showers or exercise. The rash often a