Scabies is not an infection of the skin, but an infestation of tiny mites that spreads through skin-to-skin contact.
The mites burrow under the skin and lay eggs, the infestation leads to non-stop itching and a pimple-like rash. They cannot fly or jump, they crawl slowly. Scabies can be passed easily between family members or sexual partners. It is not likely to spread through casual contact like a brief handshake or hug.