Dear Counsellor:

I was reading a book and I saw scabies listed as a sexually transmitted infection. My nine-year-old daughter has scabies and she never had sex. how is this possible? She itches a lot, especially at nights. Tell me about scabies, please.

Concerned Mother

Dear Concerned Mother:

Scabies is the name given to an infection of the skin by a small insect called the itch mite. It is too small to be seen with the naked eye. These mites are usually spread from the clothing or bedding of infected persons or during the close skin contact of sexual intercourse. They burrow into the skin where they lay eggs. Usually, two to four days after exposure, raised bumps or blisters appear on the hand and wrist, waistline or on the sex organs. They itch intensely, especially at nights.

Since your daughter is infected with scabies, other close family members may also need treatment. Make sure that clothing, bedding, and towels used in the past two weeks are washed and dried. Following the instructions of your doctor regarding treatment for scabies is extremely important.

For more information on condom use, HIV/AIDS, and other sexually transmitted infections, call the AIDS/STD Helpline at 967-3830, 967-3764 or toll free at 1888-991-4444.