What is the primary characteristic of scabies?

The primary characteristic of scabies is that it is transmitted through direct contact. Scabies is caused by an infestation of the skin by the Sarcoptes scabiei mite. These mites are spread from one person to another through close physical contact, making direct contact a significant route of transmission. This characteristic is essential for understanding how outbreaks can occur in crowded or communal living situations, such as schools, nursing homes, or among family members where skin-to-skin contact is common.

The other potential characteristics in the choices, such as it being a viral infection, causing hair loss, or resolving without treatment, do not accurately describe scabies. Scabies is not caused by a virus; rather, it is a parasitic infestation. Additionally, while scabies can lead to skin problems, it is not primarily associated with hair loss, nor does it typically resolve without medical treatment. The treatment often involves topical scabicides to eliminate the mites and alleviate itching. Understanding these aspects helps to clarify the nature of scabies and its transmission methods.