contagious

[corraled]

I have been recently diagnosed with scabies. I am understanding it takes 21 days to manifest itself. My question is, was I contagious 2 weeks ago, and how long will I be contagious. My job is working with the public.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
People who have scabies are usually no longer contagious within 24 hours of treatment.

Even after successful treatment, the dead mites, dead eggs, and fecal material will remain in the skin for 2 to 4 weeks (until the skin grows out). Thus, intense itching is expected to continue. Antihistamines (especially at night), topical steroid creams, and the liberal use of moisturizers will often help. Sometimes antibiotics are needed, if scratching results in a bacterial infection. If the rash continues to spread after treatment, or if itching persists for longer than 2-4 weeks, reexamination and/or retreatment may be necessary.

I hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.

[jagesh50]

A single application of permethin the parasites die,but another application is given after 1week to make sure.That is it,and you cease to be infectious provided you have followed the recommended method of application.