Human Itch Mite

Scientific Name: Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis

Order & Family: Order: Sarcoptiforms, Family: Sarcoptidae

Size: Microscopic, typically 0.3 to 0.45 mm long.

Human Itch Mite

Natural Habitat

Burrows under the stratum corneum (outermost layer) of human skin.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on human skin cells and extracellular fluid.

Behavior Patterns

The female mite burrows into the skin to lay eggs; her movement and secretions cause a hypersensitive allergic reaction. The life cycle from egg to adult occurs over 10-17 days.

Risks & Benefits

Causes Scabies, characterized by intense itching and rashes. High risk of secondary bacterial skin infections (like impetigo) due to scratching. Highly contagious through skin-to-skin contact.

Identified on: 6/3/2026