Scabies
Human scabies is not a reportable disease in Oklahoma; however, the Oklahoma State Department of Health will work with facilities to provide educational materials if an infestation of human scabies is identified. Scabies is caused by a parasitic insect, the human itch mite (Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis). These microscopic mites burrow in the upper layers of the skin where they live and lay eggs.
The symptoms of scabies include a red, pimple-like rash and itching, which can be more severe at night. Nodules or vesicles may also be seen. Tiny burrows can sometimes be seen as crooked grayish-white or skin colored thread-like lines on the skin surface. Common sites for scabies are between the fingers, wrists, elbows, armpits, shoulder blades, breasts, waist, buttocks, and genitalia. In children younger than 2 years of age, a rash can appear on scalp, face, neck, palms, and soles. Scratching of pimples or vesicles can cause sores that can develop secondary bacterial infections.
When a person is exposed to scabies for the first time, symptoms may not appear for up to 2 months after being infected. People who have had scabies previously may show symptoms as soon as 1-4 days. It is important to remember that an infected person can still transmit scabies to others even when there are no apparent symptoms. Scabies is transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with a person infected with scabies. Scabies can be easily transmitted to sexual partners or to other household members. The use of shared items - such as clothing, towels, or bedding of an infected person – can spread scabies infection. Scabies spreads more rapidly in crowded, institutionalized settings such as childcare facilities, nursing homes, extended-care facilities, and prisons. Suspected scabies should be reported to your health care practitioner immediately so that prompt diagnosis and treatment can reduce the chance of spread.
