Scabies in Babies: Symptoms & Treatment | Parenting Hub
Scabies is a tiny mite that burrows under the skin, causing intense itch (worse at night). Whole-household treatment is needed.
If your baby is intensely itchy — especially at night — and the rash has spread to the palms, soles, and skin folds, ask your GP about scabies. The whole household needs treating together.
What it looks like
Scabies in babies often involves the palms, soles, scalp, face and skin folds (unlike in adults, where the face is usually spared). You may see tiny red bumps, fine threadlike burrows, or pustules. Itching is intense and worse at night.
Treatment
GP-prescribed permethrin 5% cream is the standard treatment, applied head-to-toe (avoiding eyes/mouth) and left on for 8 hours. The whole household — symptomatic or not — is treated on the same day to prevent re-infestation.
Household measures
- Wash all bedding, towels and clothing in hot water on treatment day.
- Items that can't be washed: seal in a plastic bag for 7 days.
- Itching may persist 2–4 weeks after successful treatment (it's the immune reaction settling).
- A second application 7 days later is usually advised.
When to seek help
- Fever or sores becoming infected (yellow crusts)
- Itch worse despite full treatment after 4 weeks
- Spreading despite household treatment
Common questions
Can my baby still breastfeed?
Yes. Apply cream after feeds and wash any cream off the breast before the next feed.
Should daycare be told?
Yes — they can advise other parents to check children. Baby can return once first treatment is complete.