Staff at Thurston County Public Health and Social Services were alerted to the possible presence of swimmer’s itch at Deep Lake in Millersylvania State Park on Aug. 16, according to a news release.
“Swimmers at any freshwater lake need to be aware that this parasite may be present and there are ways to avoid being infected by it,” the release stated.
Swimmer’s itch is found throughout the world and is more frequent during summer months. The parasite does not have long-term effects for those who encounter it. Swimmer’s itch appears as a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to certain microscopic parasites that infect some birds and mammals. Other symptoms may include tingling, burning or itching of the skin.
According to Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, these steps can reduce the likelihood of getting swimmer’s itch:
• Choose not to swim in areas where swimmer’s itch is a known problem or where signs have been posted warning of unsafe water.
• Choose not to swim near or wade in marshy areas where snails are commonly found.
• Towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water.
• Apply water-proof sunscreen to your body before entering the water to both protect you from the sun and reduce the ability of the parasite to attach to the skin.
• Do not attract bird to areas where people are swimming.
Learn more about swimmer’s itch at https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/swimmersitch/faqs.html.
