How to treat people for mites? - briefly
Apply a topical scabicide such as 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body and repeat after one week; for severe or crusted infestations, give a single dose of oral ivermectin (200 µg/kg) followed by a second dose after one week, wash all clothing and bedding at high temperature, and treat close contacts concurrently.
How to treat people for mites? - in detail
Treating mite infestations in humans requires accurate identification, appropriate medication, and environmental control.
First, confirm the species involved. Common human‑affecting mites include Sarcoptes scabiei (causing scabies), Demodex folliculorum (associated with rosacea and blepharitis), and dust mites that trigger allergic reactions. Diagnosis is based on clinical signs, skin scrapings, or microscopic examination.
Pharmacological management
- Scabies: Apply a single dose of 5 % permethrin cream to the entire body from neck to toes, leave for 8–14 hours, then wash off. Repeat after 7 days to eliminate any newly hatched mites. Alternative: oral ivermectin 200 µg/kg, single dose, repeat after 7 days for resistant cases or mass outbreaks.
- Demodex‑related conditions: Use topical metronidazole 0.75 % gel or ivermectin 1 % cream once daily for 4–6 weeks. Oral doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 2–3 months can reduce inflammatory lesions.
- Dust‑mite allergy: Administer antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg daily) or intranasal corticosteroids for rhinitis. For severe asthma, consider leukotriene receptor antagonists or biologic agents targeting IgE.
Adjunctive measures
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture, discard vacuum bags promptly.
- Use allergen‑impermeable mattress and pillow encasements.
- Maintain indoor humidity below 50 % to discourage dust‑mite proliferation.
Follow‑up
Re‑examine the patient 2–4 weeks after treatment initiation. Verify symptom resolution and, if applicable, repeat skin scrapings to ensure eradication. Educate patients on personal hygiene, avoidance of close contact during the contagious phase, and regular cleaning routines to prevent reinfestation.
Comprehensive care combines targeted drug therapy with strict environmental sanitation, resulting in effective clearance of mite infestations and reduction of recurrence risk.