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 water, including those used for recreational swimming. Swimmer's itch occurs throughout New York State.

Who gets swimmer's itch?
People who swim or wade in infested water may experience this itching rash. Although children are most commonly affected, all age groups can be involved.

How is swimmer's itch spread?
The swimmer 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 occur when the parasite penetrates into the skin. The itching will subside for 10 to 15 hours and may then become extremely intense. This itching stage usually disappears within a week.

How soon after infection do the symptoms begin?
A victim's first exposure to infested water may not result in an itchy rash. Repeated exposure increases a person's sensitivity to the parasite and increases the likelihood of developing the rash. 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 skin lotions or creams to minimize the itching.

How can swimmer's itch be prevented?
Avoid wading in infested water and always towel off immediately after swimming to help prevent swimmer's itch. 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.

** Note **

Please remember that the information presented in this forum is for your education only, and is not intended to extend medical advice or diagnosis. If you have questions or feel that you may be experiencing symptoms similar to those presented, please call the Berkeley County Health Department at (304) 263-5131 or your primary care provider for formal medical attention.