scabies

overview
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny, eight-legged burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei . The presence of the mite leads to intense itching in the area of its burrows. The sheer discomfort of scabies can produce an almost irresistible urge to scratch, especially while you're in bed at night.

Scabies is contagious through close physical contact and can spread quickly throughout a family, child-care group, school class or nursing home. Because of the contagious nature of scabies, doctors often recommend treatment for entire families or groups to eradicate the mite.

Medications applied to your skin effectively kill the mites, although you may still experience some itching for up to several weeks.

scabies bug
drawing of the actual bug magnified.