How does a person get scabies?

Scabies is a contagious skin condition caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. The mite burrows into the skin and lays eggs, which causes an itchy rash and blisters. Scabies is usually spread through close, prolonged skin-to-skin contact, such as during sexual activity, sleeping in the same bed, or living in close quarters with others, such as in a nursing home or prison. It can also be spread through sharing clothing, bedding, or towels with an infected person. Scabies can affect anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender. It is important to seek treatment promptly to prevent the spread of scabies to others.