When is GP consultation recommended for scabies?

Scabies is caused by mites that burrow into skin and usually produces intense itching, often worse at night, with small bumps or lines. A GP can help distinguish it from eczema, an allergic reaction, or another itchy rash. Seek assessment when itching continues after treatment, new burrows appear, several household members are affected, or the person is a baby, older adult, pregnant, or immunocompromised.

Use treatment exactly as directed and make sure close household and intimate contacts receive advice at the same time, even if they have no symptoms. Wash recently used clothes, towels, and bedding as directed, and place items that cannot be washed aside according to local medical advice. Avoid close skin-to-skin contact until treatment has been completed. Itching can continue after mites are gone, so do not repeat treatment without guidance.

Get prompt medical help for thick crusts over large areas, rapidly worsening redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, or severe pain. These changes may indicate a secondary infection or a more extensive form of scabies. Urgent advice is also needed if a young infant or a person with reduced immunity is deteriorating.

Ask whether the rash fits scabies, which contacts need treatment, how to apply the prescribed product safely, how to manage lingering itch, and which signs suggest a bacterial infection.