People Itch Cartoon (IMAGE) Washington University School of Medicine Caption Itching is a highly contagious behavior. When we see someone scratch, we're likely to scratch, too. New research from the Washington University Center for the Study of Itch shows contagious itching is hardwired in the brain. Credit Michael Worful Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.