Which best describes the health risks associated with scabies?

The health risks associated with scabies are best described as leading to bacterial skin infections. Scabies is caused by a mite that burrows into the skin, leading to intense itching and a rash. The scratching that often results from this itching can break the skin, creating openings that can allow bacteria to enter. This can result in secondary bacterial infections such as cellulitis or impetigo, which can complicate the scabies condition and require additional treatment.

While scabies is indeed contagious, it does not spread through respiratory droplets, which rules out the first description. Scabies can affect individuals of any age, not just the elderly, which makes the third statement inaccurate. Additionally, hospitalization is typically not required for scabies treatment; it can be effectively managed with topical treatments and does not usually result in severe health complications that would necessitate hospital care. This context underscores why the connection to bacterial skin infections accurately captures one of the significant health risks associated with scabies.