How do you get scabies?

How do I know if I have scabies?

What do I do if I have scabies?

How do I get treated?

How do I reduce the risks of getting scabies?

Where can I find more information on scabies?
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What are scabies?   

Scabies is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a mite which lays its eggs under the skin surface.

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How do you get scabies?  

Scabies is spread by close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity, contact with towels, underclothing or bedding of an infected person.

Condoms and dental dams do not protect you against scabies.

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How do I know if I have scabies?  

• itching
• a rash on the genitals, knees, buttocks, waistline, hands, wrists, and between the fingers
• you may see silvery lines where the mite has burrowed

Your doctor or GP of choice can check for scabies and any other sexually transmitted infection (STI).

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How do I protect myself (and my partner) from getting scabies?

• Have a long-term relationship where neither of you is already infected, and neither of you has other partners
• Limit your sex partners. The fewer people you have sex with, the less chance of having sex with someone who has genital warts or other STIs
• Have regular STI check-ups
• Condoms and dental dams do not protect you against scabies

Talking about STIs can be difficult, but the person you have sex with has a right to know if you have an STI. Discuss it when you are feeling relaxed and confident, not just before you have sex. Your partner will appreciate your honesty and that you don’t want to infect him/her. You have the right to know if they are infected, too.

What do I do if I have scabies?

See your GP or doctor of choice if you think you may have scabies. Don’t have sex until the scabies are treated.

How do I get treated?  

Treatment may include:

• anti-scabies lotions (check with your doctor or pharmacist)
• at the time of treatment, wash all bed linen, towels and clothing in hot water, and dry them well
• avoid skin-to-skin contact with your partner or other close contacts until treatment is com pleted, and sexual partners and all household members have completed treatment
• the itch often lasts for 4 weeks after successful treatment

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Where can I find more information on scabies?  

For further information contact your GP, a doctor of your choice, telephone Health Direct (1800 022 222) or the Sexual Health Helpline (9227 6178 for metropolitan callers or 1800 198 205 for country callers).