Scabies is an itchy rash caused by mites. The mites spread from person to person during close skin contact. Anyone can get scabies, and it should be treated quickly to avoid it spreading.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:
- intense itching, especially at night
- a raised rash or spots – the spots may appear red.
What should I do if I think I have scabies?
Scabies aren’t usually serious, but you will need to seek treatment straight away.
A pharmacist can help, and they will recommend a cream or lotion that needs to be applied over your whole body, including your scalp and face (excluding the area around your eyes) to treat the condition.
It’s important to let the Pharmacist know if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.
You will need to repeat the treatment 7 days later as it’s very infectious. Anyone you have had sexual contact with in the past 8 weeks should also seek treatment.
Things you can do during treatment to stop scabies from spreading
Do:
- Wash all bedding and clothing in the house at 60 degrees Celsius or higher, and if possible in a hot dryer, on the first day of treatment.
- Put clothing that cannot be washed in a sealed bag for at least 3 days until the mites die.
Don’t:
- Have sex or close physical contact until you have completed the full course of treatment.
- Share bedding, clothing, or towels with someone with scabies.
See a GP if:
- Your child is under 2 years old and has symptoms of scabies or someone else in your household has scabies
- You have scabies and think your skin may be infected or you have another skin condition, such as Eczema
- you have a crusted, flaky rash on your elbows, knees, hands, or feet
- you’ve use pharmacy treatment for scabies and your skin is still itching 2 to 4 weeks after treatment has finished
Scabies can spread easily
Scabies can spread from person to person through close skin contact, including sexual contact. You cannot get scabies from pets.
People who live or work closely together in nurseries, university halls, or nursing homes are more at risk.
NHS Website
For further details about Scabies, please visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/scabies/
Page created: 10th November 2025
Page updated: 10th November 2025