How to treat the body for scabies mites? - briefly
Apply a prescription scabicide—commonly permethrin 5 % cream—over the whole body, leave it on for the recommended time (usually 8–14 hours), then repeat the treatment after 7–10 days; simultaneously launder all bedding, clothing, and towels in hot water and treat close contacts with the same regimen.
How to treat the body for scabies mites? - in detail
Scabies infestation requires a coordinated approach that combines medication, hygiene measures, and environmental control.
First‑line pharmacotherapy consists of topical scabicides applied to the entire body from the neck down, including the scalp in infants and the soles of the feet in children. Permethrin 5 % cream is applied once, left on for eight to fourteen hours, then washed off. Alternatives such as benzyl benzoate or sulfur ointment may be used when resistance or intolerance to permethrin occurs.
Systemic treatment with oral ivermectin is indicated for widespread disease, crusted scabies, or when topical agents cannot be applied. The standard regimen is 200 µg/kg taken on day 1 and repeated after 7–14 days. Additional doses may be required for severe cases.
Concurrent measures include:
- Bathing or showering before medication application to remove debris and reduce skin irritation.
- Laundering clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and drying at high heat for at least 20 minutes.
- Sealing non‑washable items in airtight bags for a minimum of 72 hours to starve mites.
- Treating all household members and close contacts simultaneously, regardless of symptom presence, to prevent reinfestation.
Post‑treatment evaluation should occur 2–4 weeks after the final dose. Persistent itching may indicate secondary infection or a need for repeat therapy; however, resolution of lesions confirms successful eradication.
Patients with compromised immunity, elderly individuals, and those with extensive skin involvement require close monitoring, possible adjunctive antibiotics for secondary bacterial infection, and reinforcement of environmental decontamination.
Adherence to the medication schedule, thorough cleaning of personal items, and treatment of contacts together eliminate the parasite and prevent recurrence.