Question 1

How long is scabies contagious?

Accepted Answer

A person with scabies may be contagious even before the first symptoms appear. Once treatment has begun, the French National Health Insurance Service recommends avoiding skin-to-skin contact with others for three days after taking the first dose of treatment.

Question 2

When can you go back to work or school after having scabies?

Accepted Answer

For children and adults with common scabies, a return to community life is possible between 24 and 72 hours after a course of treatment has been followed correctly.

Question 3

Can you sleep with someone who has scabies?

Accepted Answer

Contact should be avoided until the period of contagiousness following the start of treatment has passed. Scabies is transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact.

Question 4

Can you catch scabies twice?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A first infestation with scabies does not confer immunity to the parasite. A person who has recovered can therefore become infected again if they are re-exposed to Sarcoptes scabiei.

Question 5

Should the whole family be treated?

Accepted Answer

That is preferable, but the final decision rests with your doctor.

Our advice

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