Thurston County Public Health and Social Services has issued a health advisory for Long Lake Park in Lacey. Several swimmers have reported cases of swimmer's itch, also called cercarial dermatitis. This condition occurs when parasites found in both salt and fresh water enter the skin, causing rashes and irritation, according to the Thurston County.
These parasites come from snails and often affect swimmers by temporarily burrowing into their skin. Once in contact, they cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms include "tingling, burning, or itching of the skin." Scratching should be avoided to prevent infections, as reported by the Thurston County.
Swimmer’s itch can occur in many freshwater bodies, especially during warmer months. To reduce the risk, avoid swimming in waters with swimmer’s itch warnings or marshy areas where snails live. Applying waterproof sunscreen before swimming may help prevent the parasite from attaching to the skin. It is also recommended to towel off or shower immediately after swimming. Feeding birds near the water can increase the risk of swimmer’s itch. If symptoms occur, healthcare providers may prescribe medication to relieve the itch, as stated by the Thurston County.
