Scabies Causes
Many people who get scabies are not even aware of why they have it or what caused it. Scabies is actually a skin condition caused by a mite. It is extremely contagious, and the rash that accompanies virtually every case of scabies is extremely unpleasant. Although certain people may be more prone to contracting a case of scabies, it is a condition that can effect anyone, regardless of their social status or living conditions.
The mite that causes scabies is known as a Sarcoptes scabiei. This particular mite is so small that it is barely visible to the human eye. Unlike mosquitos or other pests, the mite actually digs a small tunnel into the skin. Before going into the skin, a mite may appear as nothing more than a tiny white dot on the skin. Once it has successfully borrowed into the skin, it triggers an allergic reaction which leads to the subsequent itching and rash that scabies is well-known for.
The most common way that scabies is contracted is through close human interaction. Whether it is from a hug, sleeping together or other contact, scabies can be passed very easily from one person to another. In addition to human contact, a small percentage of individuals contract scabies from touching something that the mite is on. This form of transmission is much more rare, mainly because the mite has a life span of less than forty-eight hours when it is away from a host human. |
