the symptoms of scabies are due to an allergic reaction to the mites. scabies is usally spread by direct skin contact with an infected person (at least 10 minutes). spread of disease may occur even if the person has not yet developed symptoms. crowded living conditions, such as those found in child-care facilities, group homes, and prisons, increase the risk of spread. areas with a lack of access to water also have higher rates of disease.