Scabies, or ‘the itch’, is a contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite. In this topic Menu Scabies, or ‘the itch’, is a contagious skin disease caused by the itch mite. Scabies can be treated with a special cream or with tablets. Recognising scabies What is scabies and how do you recognise it? Preventing scabies How do you get scabies and how can you avoid it? Treating scabies You can treat scabies with pills (Ivermectine) or cream (Permetrine). For professionals Download guidelines, infographics, leaflets and other communication tools.