Scabies mite, how to get rid of it? - briefly
Effective treatment involves applying a prescription scabicide—commonly 5 % permethrin cream—over the whole body and laundering all clothing, bedding, and towels at ≥60 °C. Simultaneous therapy for household members prevents reinfestation.
Scabies mite, how to get rid of it? - in detail
The microscopic mite responsible for scabies burrows into the upper layer of skin, laying eggs that trigger intense itching. Effective eradication requires a coordinated approach that targets both the organism and its eggs, while preventing re‑infestation.
First‑line pharmacotherapy consists of topical scabicidal agents applied to the entire body from neck to toes. Recommended products include:
- Permethrin 5 % cream, left on for 8–14 hours before washing off; repeat after one week.
- Benzyl benzoate 25 % lotion, applied similarly; a second application may be needed.
- Sulfur ointment (5–10 %) for infants, pregnant women, or individuals with sensitivity to synthetic agents; applied nightly for three consecutive nights.
Oral ivermectin offers an alternative for widespread outbreaks, immunocompromised patients, or cases unresponsive to topical treatment. Standard dosing is 200 µg/kg body weight, repeated after 7–14 days.
Adjunct measures enhance outcomes:
- Wash all clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water (≥ 50 °C) and dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Seal items that cannot be laundered in sealed plastic bags for a minimum of 72 hours, depriving mites of a viable environment.
- Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture thoroughly; discard vacuum bags after use.
- Treat close contacts simultaneously, regardless of symptom presence, to break transmission cycles.
Symptom relief may be achieved with antihistamines or low‑potency corticosteroid creams, but these do not eliminate the parasite and should be used only as supportive therapy.
Follow‑up evaluation after the second treatment round confirms resolution. Persistent lesions or renewed itching warrant re‑examination, possible alternative medication, and investigation of secondary bacterial infection.
Implementing the described regimen, combined with strict hygiene protocols, achieves complete removal of the scabies mite and prevents recurrence.