#asktheexpert scabies recurring again and again for my 10 month old son. Even after permite cream and washing all the bedding. what to do

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Accepted Answer

how is your baby now we are also facing same thung

Accepted Answer

Dealing with recurrent scabies in a 10-month-old can be challenging, especially if you’ve already used permethrin cream and washed all bedding. Scabies is highly contagious, so it’s important to ensure that every possible measure is taken to fully treat and prevent reinfection. Here are some steps to help manage and prevent recurrence:

1. Complete Treatment Course:

Ensure full treatment: Sometimes, scabies treatment needs to be repeated, especially if the first application didn’t fully kill the mites. Permethrin cream should be applied from neck to toes, and you should leave it on for 8-14 hours before washing it off.

Follow the instructions carefully: If you've already used the cream but are still seeing symptoms, it's important to consult the pediatrician. They might recommend reapplying the treatment after 1-2 weeks, as sometimes a second dose is necessary to kill any remaining mites or eggs.

2. Treat All Family Members:

Treat everyone in close contact: Even if other family members don’t show symptoms, it’s important to treat everyone in the household, especially those who come into close contact with your baby. Scabies is highly contagious, and untreated family members can pass it back to your baby.

Avoid direct contact: During the treatment period, try to avoid close contact with others to prevent reinfection.

3. Thorough Cleaning:

Wash all bedding, clothes, and soft toys: Scabies mites can survive off the body for 2-3 days. Be sure to wash all sheets, towels, and clothes in hot water and dry them on a high heat setting.

Vacuum the home: Vacuuming floors and upholstery can help remove mites that might be lurking in furniture or carpets. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag immediately after use.

4. Consider Other Treatments:

Alternative treatments: If permethrin isn’t effective, your doctor may prescribe an alternative treatment like benzyl benzoate or crotamiton. In some cases, oral medications such as Ivermectin may be recommended, especially for severe or recurring cases.

Hydrocortisone cream for itching: If the itching persists even after the scabies mites have been killed, your baby may benefit from a low-strength hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching and inflammation. However, this should be used under medical supervision, especially in infants.

5. Avoid Contact with Contaminated Items:

Limit the baby’s exposure to shared items that might harbor mites, such as shared blankets, towels, or items at daycare. If your child attends daycare or has close contact with others, ensure that they are aware of the condition and take proper precautions.

6. Monitor for Symptoms:

Keep track of your baby’s symptoms. Sometimes, even after treatment, itching can continue for a few weeks due to skin irritation. However, if new rashes or bumps appear, it could indicate that the scabies infection is still present or that reinfection has occurred.

7. Consult Your Pediatrician:

If your baby’s scabies keeps recurring, or if you notice worsening symptoms despite treatment, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician. They may want to test for other underlying causes, such as other types of skin infections or conditions, or adjust the treatment plan.

Recurrence of scabies is often due to incomplete treatment, reinfection, or environmental contamination. By following the above guidelines and closely following the doctor’s advice, you can prevent further outbreaks and ensure your baby gets relief.