What is the recommended treatment for scabies?

The recommended treatment for scabies involves the use of permethrin and good hygiene practices. Permethrin is a topical scabicide that effectively kills the mites causing scabies. It is typically applied to the entire body from the neck down and left on for a specific amount of time before being washed off, depending on the formulation and recommendations.

In addition to medication, good hygiene is crucial in managing scabies. This includes washing all bedding, clothes, and towels in hot water and drying them on a hot cycle to eliminate any mites or eggs that may be present. It may also involve cleaning the living environment to prevent reinfestation and to minimize the risk of transmission to others.

While some other options might address discomfort associated with scabies, such as using antihistamines to relieve itching or topical steroids for inflammation, they do not target the underlying cause (the mite infestation). Aloe vera may help soothe the skin but is not an effective treatment for scabies. Oral antibiotics are not relevant as they are indicated for secondary bacterial infections that may arise if scratching leads to breaks in the skin but do not address the scabies itself. Therefore, the combination of permethrin and good hygiene is the most effective approach to treat and control scabies.