Scabies is a skin infestation caused by Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. Scabies is a common condition that is found worldwide and which affects people of all races and social classes. Scabies is hyperendemic throughout the developing world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, India, the Aboriginal regions of northern Australia, and the South Pacific Islands. Scabies can spread easily under crowded conditions, where close body and skin contact is common. Institutions such as nursing homes, extended-care facilities, and prisons are often the sites of scabies outbreaks. Scabies can easily be passed on by an infested person to household members and sexual partners. Scabies is prevented by avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact with an infested person or items such as clothing or bedding used by an infested person. Treatment of scabies is usually recommended for members of the same household, particularly for those with prolonged skin-to-skin contact. All household members and other potentially exposed persons should be treated simultaneously with the infested person to prevent re-exposure and re-infestation. Improved access to personal hygiene and healthcare for all displaced, homeless, or institutionalized people should be implemented.

Keywords: Scabies, Infection control, Health personnel