Scabies is caused by infestation with a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei that burrows under the skin to live, feed, and lay eggs, causing intense itching and a rash

How you get scabies:

• Direct, prolonged skin-to-skin contact with a person who has scabies is the most common way to get it. This includes close personal contact such as sexual partners, household members, or anyone you have extended skin contact with

• Sharing clothing, towels, or bedding with someone who is infected can also spread scabies, though this is less common

• Scabies spreads more easily in crowded conditions where close body contact is frequent, such as nursing homes, prisons, childcare facilities, and homeless shelters

• Quick casual contact like a handshake or hug usually does not spread scabies

Additional points:

• Crusted (Norwegian) scabies is a more severe and highly contagious form that can spread even with limited contact or from contaminated bedding and furniture

• Scabies is not related to hygiene or cleanliness and can affect anyone

In summary, scabies is primarily transmitted through prolonged direct skin contact with an infected person or less commonly through sharing personal items like bedding or clothing