Scabies

My family has had it once, so I hope I can give you some information. It is basically a skin lice, although about ten times more irritating. It is extremely itchy, to the point where you want to rip your skin off. The misconception people often make is that it's caused by dirt or filth, when the opposite is true. They thrive on clean bodies and clean environements. Removal is much like lice. You go to a doctor and they'll prescribe the body lotion. You apply it, and at the same time, have to clean (vacuum, wash) everything in your house ... couches, beds, bedding ... vaccuum all the furniture. All clothing has to be washed in hot water, all brushes, everything. A week later you do the process again. By then, hopefully it's gone. The other thing to point out is that it is EXTREMELY contagious. It will literally jump from one person to another in close proximity, so if you've been close to this kid, you will start noticing the itching within the next two weeks. That's normally how long it takes to show up. You may also notice a rash on your arms, legs, thighs. You have my sympathy.... this is ten times harder to get rid of than lice.

That's what I've always heard, is that it was like skin lice. I can't give you any personal advice, but, I can give you a wikipedia link, which is generally useful; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scabies Good luck.