Itching? Scratching? Especially at night?
Centra Care data shows that cases of Scabies, an easily-spread skin disease caused by a mite, have increased in the past week across Centra Care centers.
- The locations that reported the largest increases include –
- Leesburg – up 500%
- Lee Road – up 200%
- Temple Terrace – up 200%
Learn More
Scabies is a very easily spread skin disease. The microscopic Scabies mite burrows into the upper layer of the skin where it lives and lays eggs. Scabies is usually spread by direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact with a person who has it.
Symptoms include:
- Itching, especially at night
- Rashes
- Sores from scratching
- Thin, pencil-like lines on the skin
Common affected areas:
- Between the fingers
- Wrist
- Elbow
- Armpit
- Genitals
The head, face, neck, palms and soles are often affected in infants and young children, but not usually in adults and older kids.
Source: CDC
To diagnose, a doctor will examine the skin for signs of scabies. An examination of skin scrapings, under a microscope, may also be done to look for mites.
Treatment
Scabies infections are most commonly treated with prescription medicated cream applied all over the body. Itching may continue for up to 2 weeks after treatment begins. The whole family or sexual partners should also be treated, whether or not they have symptoms. Also wash underwear, towels and sleepwear in hot water. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture.
Visit your doctor or any Centra Care location right away if you have symptoms of Scabies OR someone you have been in close contact with has Scabies.
