Scabies is caused by coming into contact with a very tiny scabies mite, which you cannot see with the naked eye.

The mites can live for up to 72 hours off the body, so it is possible that it can be spread by clothing, bedding and towels.

The mites can be found in many places over the body, including;

  • On the genitals
  • Hands
  • Between the fingers
  • Wrists
  • Elbows
  • Arm pits
  • Abdomen
  • On the breasts
  • Around the nipple in women
  • Feet
  • Ankles
  • Buttocks