How to eradicate a scabies mite? - briefly
Apply 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body, leave it on for 8–14 hours, wash it off, and repeat after 7 days. If topical treatment is unsuitable, give oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) as a single dose, repeat after one week, and launder all clothing, towels, and bedding at high temperature.
How to eradicate a scabies mite? - in detail
Scabies infestations require a systematic approach that combines pharmacologic therapy, environmental control, and monitoring of contacts.
First‑line medication consists of topical scabicidal agents applied to the entire body from neck to toes. Permethrin 5 % cream remains the preferred option; a single overnight application is repeated after 7–10 days to kill newly hatched mites. Benzyl benzoate 25 % lotion and sulfur ointment (5 %) serve as alternatives when resistance or intolerance to permethrin occurs.
Oral ivermectin provides an effective systemic option, especially for crusted scabies or cases where topical treatment is impractical. The standard regimen is 200 µg/kg body weight taken on day 1 and repeated on day 8; severe disease may require additional doses at weekly intervals. Contraindications include pregnancy, lactation, and known hypersensitivity.
Environmental decontamination eliminates sources of reinfestation. All clothing, bedding, and towels used within the preceding 72 hours must be washed in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and tumble‑dried on high heat. Items that cannot be laundered should be sealed in airtight plastic bags for at least 72 hours, a duration sufficient to kill offstage mites. Vacuuming carpets and upholstered furniture removes detached organisms; discard vacuum bags promptly.
Close contacts—family members, sexual partners, and anyone sharing sleeping arrangements—require simultaneous prophylactic treatment, even if asymptomatic, to prevent recurrence.
Follow‑up assessment occurs 2–4 weeks after the initial therapy. Persistent burrows, new lesions, or intense itching indicate treatment failure and necessitate repeat dosing or a switch to an alternative agent.
In summary, eradication relies on correct drug selection and dosing, thorough laundering or isolation of personal items, treatment of all exposed individuals, and timely re‑evaluation to confirm resolution.