Q: I have got a new skin problem this winter. I have itching on my whole body. My little nephew has also got this problem. Is this common during this season or is it a serious matter?

A:If you and your family members are having itching of recent onset and itching is more at night, then most likely you and your family members are suffering from scabies. Scabies is a contagious disease caused by a mite and is transmitted by close personal contacts. It can be treated with topical and systemic agents. Amongst topical agents, permethrin 5% cream/ lotion single overnight application below neck for adults is advised and is the treatment of choice. Repeat application is advocated after one week. A word of caution - do not use this application daily. To control itching, antihistamines are used. Systemic therapy of use is oral ivermectin. Treatment should be taken as per the advice of a dermatologist.