Swimmer's Itch
(cercarial dermatitis, schistosome dermatitis)
What is swimmer's itch?
Swimmer's itch is a skin rash caused by certain parasites of birds and
mammals. These parasites are released from infected snails and migrate
through waters including those used for recreational swimming. Cases of
swimmer's itch have been reported from all parts of New York State.
Who gets swimmer's itch?
People who swim or wade in infested water may experience this itching
rash. All age groups and both sexes can be involved, but children are
most often infected due to their habits of swimming or wading in the water
and playing on the beach as the water evaporates from the skin.
How is swimmer's itch spread?
The victim may get the infection by swimming or wading in infested water
and then allowing water to evaporate off the skin rather than regularly
drying the skin with a towel. Person to person spread does not occur.
What are the symptoms of swimmer's itch?
Whenever infested water is allowed to evaporate off the skin, an initial
tingling sensation may be felt associated with the penetration of the
parasite into the skin. The itching will subside for 10-15 hours and may
then become extremely intense. This itching stage usually disappears within
a week.
How soon do the symptoms begin?
A victim's first exposure to infested water may not result in the itchy
rash. Repeated exposure increases a person's sensitivity to the parasite
and increases the likelihood of rash development. Symptoms may appear
within one to two hours of exposure.
What is the treatment for swimmer's itch?
While all cases do not require treatment, some people may seek relief
by applying specific skin lotions or creams to minimize the itching.
What can be done to prevent the spread of swimmer's itch?
Toweling off after swimming or wading in infested water can be very
helpful in preventing rash development. Communities may apply through
the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation for a permit
to apply specific chemicals to kill the migrating snails. Copper sulfate
or copper carbonate materials can be applied by boat around popular bathing
areas. If properly timed, these applications may prevent the annual migration
of infested snails into swimming areas.
Source: NY State Department of Health
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