WELCOME TO GAY MEN’S HEALTH
SCOTLAND’S CHARITY FOR GAY MEN
SCABIES
Scabies is a very common skin infection that is caused by tiny parasitic mites which burrow under the skin and cause itching. These are easily passed on through body contact during sex.
Symptoms
Itching can be mild and the mites are too small to be seen so it is possible not to realise you have it. Itching can also be intense (particularly after bathing) and the mites can leave red lines especially around the wrists and between the fingers.
Prevention
Scabies can be stopped from spreading by washing clothing and bedding. People who may have come into close contact with you may also need to be treated.
Treatment
A lotion such as Quellada can be bought from a chemist or obtained free from a GUM clinic; this is applied to the whole body and left on for 24 hours.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Find Us:
Gay Men’s Health Ltd. Scottish Charity No. sco23479 Registered Company No. 156826
Registered Office: Edinburgh Quay, 113 Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, EH3 9AG
(N.B. This address is not for normal correspondence - see our contact page)