The number of scabies cases in the Netherlands has risen significantly in recent years. The tiny, itchy creature sometimes turns entire student houses upside down. The scabies mite doesn't just like living with students: scabies is also being diagnosed more frequently among the elderly and children. As a result, we are increasingly receiving the question of whether you can catch scabies through second-hand clothing. The chance of this is fortunately small, but not impossible. Therefore, we have looked into what you can do to avoid it. Be warned: this story will give you immediate itching.
Schurft is een jeukende huidaandoening die wordt veroorzaakt door een klein beestje, de schurftmijt, die zich ingraaft in de huid.
Scabies, also known as the itch, is caused by the scabies mite: a tiny creature that cannot be seen with the naked eye. If you become infected, these mites burrow tiny tunnels into your skin and lay eggs. Just the thought of it makes us itch! If you do have scabies, you'll notice severe itching and a rash. The tricky thing is that it can take up to six weeks before symptoms appear. During this time, you can already infect others. Therefore, housemates and people with whom you've had close physical contact must also be treated. This is done with a special cream or pills. Clothing and bedding also need to be changed daily. Although scabies is not dangerous, we would, of course, rather prevent it.
You won't see the scabies mite, but don't worry: the chances are slim and you can simply wash it out at 60 degrees.
Can scabies mites be present in second-hand clothing?
Scabies is mainly transmitted through skin contact lasting longer than fifteen minutes. In some cases, infection can also occur via textiles, such as bedding or clothing. Scabies is most common in places where many people live in close proximity, such as student halls or care homes. Fortunately, the chance of contracting scabies from second-hand clothing is small. The scabies mite prefers to live in the skin and can only survive for three days without a human host. So, unless you're unlucky enough that someone with scabies wore the garment for an extended period in the days before you put it on and didn't wash it, it's virtually impossible to get scabies from second-hand clothing.
How to prevent getting scabies from second-hand clothing?
So you can't tell if scabies mites are present in second-hand clothing, and the chance is very small, but luckily there's something you can do about it. If you wash second-hand clothing at 60 degrees, the scabies mite won't survive. That's a good idea anyway, because There can also be other grime in second-hand clothing. If clothing cannot be washed at 60 degrees, it can be sealed in a plastic bag for three days. The scabies mites will not survive this either. This way, you can continue your treasure hunt for vintage gems with peace of mind.
You might also find this interesting
- Looking for something special? These are the best webshops for second-hand designer clothing.
- Tip for long hair: Sustainable hair ties are lying in the street!
- Looking for a second-hand smartphone or tablet? Here you'll find tips for finding second-hand gadgets.
Sources: KRO-NCRV, RIVM, Home doctor. Photo credits: main image: Sam Lion (Pexels), woman in clothing store: Mart Production (Pexels), washing machine: Planetcare (Unsplash).
