How to remove a scabies mite? - briefly
Apply a 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body from the neck down, leave it on for 8–14 hours, then wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry on high heat; repeat treatment after one week to eliminate any surviving mites. Simultaneously treat household members and disinfect the environment to prevent re‑infestation.
How to remove a scabies mite? - in detail
Eliminating the scabies mite requires a coordinated pharmacological and environmental approach. Pharmacological treatment targets the parasite on the skin, while environmental measures prevent re‑infestation from contaminated objects.
Topical agents are the first line of therapy. Recommended preparations include permethrin 5 % cream and benzyl benzoate 25 % lotion. Apply a thin layer over the entire body from the neck down, leaving the medication on for the period specified in the product instructions—typically 8–14 hours—then wash off thoroughly. Repeat the application after 7 days to eradicate newly hatched mites.
Oral ivermectin serves as an alternative or adjunct, especially for extensive disease, crusted scabies, or when topical treatment is impractical. The standard dosage is 200 µg/kg body weight, administered as a single dose and repeated after 7 days. In severe cases, a third dose may be prescribed at day 14.
Environmental decontamination reduces the risk of recurrence. Follow these steps:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels used within the previous 72 hours in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in a plastic bag for a minimum of 72 hours; the mite cannot survive beyond this period without a host.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstered furniture, and mattresses thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use.
- Disinfect surfaces with an appropriate household disinfectant, focusing on areas of direct contact.
Symptom relief may be achieved with antihistamines or topical corticosteroids to reduce itching and inflammation. Advise the affected individual to avoid scratching to prevent secondary bacterial infection.
Monitoring the treatment response involves assessing symptom resolution and confirming the absence of new burrows after two weeks. If signs persist, repeat the therapeutic regimen or consider combination therapy under medical supervision.
Preventive education includes informing close contacts about the need for simultaneous treatment, emphasizing proper hygiene, and recommending regular inspection of household members during outbreaks.