Here’s how to combat swimmer’s itch

People in a lake. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin Tang

After receiving reports of swimmer’s itch, Grey Bruce Public Health is offering up tips to prevent the summertime skin infection.

While swimmer’s itch is typically minor, it causes unpleasant symptoms, according to the health unit.

What is swimmer’s itch?

It’s a skin infection caused by microscopic parasites, which get released into lakes by infected snails. The parasites can then get under someone’s skin who may be swimming in the contaminated water.

Even though the parasites will die once they’re in the skin, it can prompt an allergic reaction and rash in a person.

“While swimmer’s itch cannot spread from person to person and is not an infection reportable to public health, it can cause symptoms that can last up to two weeks and scratching affected areas may result in secondary bacterial infections,” says Senior Public Health Manager Andrew Barton.

Swimmer’s itch is mostly picked up in shallow water, with children more at risk of getting it, since they typically spend more time in that part of a body of water.

Symptoms

Between minutes and days of being exposed, tingling, burning or itching skin can develop with small, red bumps that can turn into blisters or a rash.

It can last between a few days and up to two weeks.

To relieve symptoms, experts recommend using cool compresses, having Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal baths, using calamine lotion or a baking soda paste.

Health officials say if symptoms remain, to contact a healthcare provider.

How to prevent swimmer’s itch

The health unit recommends avoiding swim areas where swimmer’s itch is known to be a problem.

It also says to avoid marshy areas where snails are common.

Finally, officials recommend towelling dry or showering right after coming out of the water, which will kill most parasites.