COMMON CHILDHOOD ILLNESSES AND CONDITIONS

SCABIES

Scabies is an intense, itchy rash caused by an almost invisible, spider-like mite. Scabies is contagious and spread by touching. The mite burrows under the skin to lay its eggs and feed. The rash spreads as the mite and offspring continue to burrow.

HOME CARE

• Use a nonprescription insecticide (Elirnite) to kill the mite and anti-inflammatory cream to treat the rash. If your child is under age 2, call the doctor before administering.
• Wear only freshly washed clothes and use freshly washed sheets after treatment begins.
• Wash clothes and sheets in hot water and dry thoroughly.
• Apply prescription strength Elimite cream over the entire body as directed on the label from your pharmacist.
• Use other medicines and creams to treat the rash and its complications as directed by your doctor.
• Bathe with Fels Naphthal bar soap which can be found in the detergent section of most grocery stores.