Scabies Treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is scabies?

Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, resulting in intense itching and a rash. Symptoms are often worse at night.

2. What are the common symptoms of scabies?

Common symptoms include persistent itching, particularly at night, and a rash that may appear between the fingers, around the wrists, under the arms, or in the groin area.

3. Can a pharmacist help with scabies treatment?

Yes. Pharmacists can provide treatment advice, explain how to use scabies treatments correctly, and help you understand how to prevent the condition from spreading. In New Zealand, pharmacies can provide support for eligible patients and their households.

4. Does everyone in the household need treatment?

In most cases, close household contacts should be treated at the same time, even if they do not currently have symptoms, to help prevent reinfestation.

5. Why does itching continue after treatment?

Itching can continue for several weeks after successful treatment because the skin is still reacting to the mites, even after they have been eliminated.