Scientific name: Sarcoptes scabiei
Family: Sarcoptidae
Other common name: Itch mite
Distribution
Across Australia, but more frequently in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas in tropical regions
Description
This species is from a family of parasitic mites known as “scab mites”. This mite burrows into the skin and causes scabies. The disease produces intense itchy skin rashes similar to an allergic reaction in appearance when a female burrows into skin and deposits eggs in the burrow. The mites live for 3–4 weeks in the host’s skin.
Hosts
Humans, domesticated dogs and cats, wild boars, bovids, koalas, and great apes.
Symptoms and Treatments of Scabies mite bite
| Symptoms | Treatment |
| * Intense itching especially at night * Pimple-like rash * Scales or blisters * Sores caused by scratching *Track-like burrows in the skin | * Attention to personal hygiene * Heat wash clothes and iron creases * Seek a medical professional * Local application of ointment, or as advised by a doctor. |
Leave a Reply