Scabies spreads through prolonged skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it: sharing a bed, close family contact, children playing together or sexual contact. A quick handshake or hug usually will not spread it.
The mites move from one person to another during close, prolonged contact. That is why scabies spreads so easily in households, crèches, schools, hostels and care homes.
Spread through clothing, towels or bedding is uncommon but possible, especially with crusted scabies. Human scabies is not caught from pets: the mite that causes it only lives on people.
Anyone can get scabies, whatever their age or standard of hygiene.
Updated 15 October 2026. This is general information, not a diagnosis. If you are unsure, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
S0 Skabi-Rid is a registered medicine (Reg. No. A40/13.2/0756). Read the package insert before use. If symptoms persist, see your doctor or pharmacist.