Swimmers' Itch a Hidden Danger in Our Lakes

Swimmers' Itch is a microscopic parasite which infests the lakes in our Northern states. This pesky worm dies shortly after penetrating the skin but can cause an allergic reaction in some people and children. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself and your children from Swimmers' Itch.

The symptoms of Swimmers' Itch are red spots on the skin which appears a few hours after swimming. The spot grows in size and will increase if scratched. The skin surface swells growing into a red welt reaching its full size after twenty-four hours. For most people the symptoms disappear after a week but sometimes the welts can become infected and need medical attention. In all cases they cause a very bad itch. If the symptoms persist more than a week or are severe, consult a physician. If you are not certain what caused the rash consult a physician.

Swimmers' Itch is present in the Northern lakes of the United States and all of Canada. Commonly you will find it from late May through June. However, in some lakes it will last the entire summer. Generally an outbreak follows a period of warm, eighty degree temperatures. Swimmers' Itch is present along the shoreline which makes beaches particularly problematic for this pest.

The parasite has a life cycle which starts with shore birds like Geese. They carry the worm in their blood vessels and the eggs are expelled in their feces. The eggs hatch in water and begin searching for snails. They use the snails as hosts to develop into a larva. It is in this stage that they cause Swimmers' Itch. The larva is looking for a new host to restart its life cycle and will attach to any mammal.

There are a few things you can do to help avoid getting Swimmers' Itch. First is to avoid swimming in areas with a high snail population. The best way to do this is to swim at a sand-covered beach and avoiding areas with large bird populations. If the lake and beach have many geese and ducks, it is ideal for Swimmers' Itch.

After swimming towel down immediately upon leaving the water. If there is a shower available rinse off in the shower and dry thoroughly. Change out of your bathing suit, do not let it air dry while you are wearing it. Swim away from the shore if possible. Try to avoid swimming during or directly after a strong onshore wind. Children are most susceptible to Swimmers' itch due to their tendency to run in and out of the water and to stay in the shallow area.

If you do get Swimmers' Itch there is nothing you can do to shorten the length of infection. Doctors' can prescribe a medication for the swelling and itching. There are also several over the counter anti-itch creams available. One home remedy is to wash with Fels Naptha soap but please note that the label states the soap is a skin irritant and you should avoid prolonged contact.

Swimmers' Itch is annoying but should not stop you from having a fun day at the beach. Only about a third of swimmers in an infested lake actually get Swimmers' Itch. With proper precautions and a little knowledge about the pest you can help avoid getting it while enjoying your favorite lake.