Scabies spreads quickly in crowded conditions where there is frequent skin-to-skin contact between people. Hospitals, child-care centers and nursing homes are examples.

Scabies can easily infect sex partners and other household members. Sharing clothes, towels, and bedding can also spread scabies.

You cannot get scabies from a pet. Pets get a different mite infection called mange.Symptoms are
* Pimple-like irritations or a rash
* Intense itching, especially at night
* Sores caused by scratching

Several lotions are available to treat scabies. The infected person's clothes, bedding and towels should be washed in hot water and dried in a hot dryer.