3 Household Mistakes to Avoid During Scabies Treatment

After the diagnosis, ask for a plan that covers the household as well as your prescription.

Three mistakes and what to do instead

1. Treating one person without coordinating contacts. Household members and close contacts should be treated at the same time as the diagnosed person. Ask the clinician who belongs in that group and how each person gets suitable treatment. Avoid direct skin contact until treatment is finished.¹²

2. Leaving recently used fabrics out of the plan. Wash clothing and bedding used during the three days before treatment. Use hot washing and drying or dry-cleaning. Items that cannot be washed can be sealed in a bag for the advised period, several days to a week.¹

3. Assuming every itch means treatment failed. Itching can last several weeks even after mites and eggs are killed. Contact the clinician if it persists beyond two to four weeks or new burrows or pimple-like rashes appear. They can assess whether retreatment is needed.²

Use the prescription as directed

Over-the-counter products are not approved to treat scabies. Do not use insecticide sprays or fumigants. For a prescribed cream or lotion, follow the instructions about application and how long to leave it on.²

Contact a healthcare professional immediately if sores develop or you suspect a skin infection. Keep the clinic number with the treatment directions.²

Write down each person’s treatment date and the instructions received so you can resolve any uncertainty with the clinician.

Skin, Head to Toe lists a Skin Log and appointment script. They can help organize symptoms and questions for follow-up care. See the book.