Scabies

Excerpt

Scabies is a highly contagious skin condition caused by infestation with the mite Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis. As an obligate ectoparasite, the mite burrows into human skin and, weeks after the initial infection, triggers intense nocturnal pruritus. Transmission occurs primarily through skin-to-skin contact, placing children, family members, and individuals with close physical interactions at the highest risk of infection.

Recognized as a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization in 2017, scabies remains a significant public health concern in many developing regions due to its complications. Without timely intervention, the infection rarely resolves spontaneously, resulting in persistent disease, outbreaks, long-term morbidity, and an increased economic burden. Early recognition and treatment are therefore essential to prevent adverse outcomes.