Crabs, Lice & Scabies

Crabs (pubic lice)

• small lice that live in pubic hair and sometimes in the hair of the armpits, eyelashes eyebrows and chest hair. You can get them by having close physical contact with someone who has them or by coming into contact with infested bedding, towels or clothing.

Symptoms of Crabs:

You will feel intense itching caused when the lice bite you. You may also notice small black spots or minute bloodstains on your underwear. You can also feel and see their eggs -- little bumps at the base of the hair.

Crabs are treated with a non-prescription lotion or shampoo that you can get from the pharmacy, clinic or your doctor. You will also need to use a fine-toothed comb or your fingernails to scrape the eggs off your hairs of the affected area. Your sexual partner or anyone that you share clothing or a bed with will also need to be treated. All clothing, towels and bedding need to be washed in hot water or stored in an air tight bag for two weeks and your mattress needs to be vacuumed. This is to make sure that all of the lice and eggs are gone.

Scabies

• often called "the Itch", are tiny mites, or members of the spider family. The mites are spread through any body contact with the infested area.

Symptoms of Scabies:

They are too small to see. If you are infected you will feel an intense itching. The female lays her eggs inside the skin of the hands, wrists, skin folds or genital area. This leaves marks that look like scratches.

Scabies are treated by applying a specific non-prescription lotion to your whole body. This lotion can be purchased at a pharmacy.

Testing for Crabs & Scabies:

Testing for crabs and scabies is done through a physical examination performed by a doctor.

For more information on crabs or scabies contact your local health care practitioner, member of CFSH, sexual health clinic or Public Health Department.