Swimmer's Itch Outbreak Detected in Lake Superior, Health Officials Say
Published: Thursday, August 3, 2023 10:00 am
By: Justine Lofton, MLive
CHIPPEWA COUNTY, MI – A swimmer’s itch outbreak has been detected in Lake Superior. Health officials recommend beachgoers stay out of the water under certain weather conditions to lessen their risk of contracting the infection.
Swimmer’s itch has been detected in people swimming in the surface waters of Lake Superior in areas of Whitefish Bay off West Lakeshore Drive/Curley Lewis Highway and Waishkey Bay in Bay Mills Township, the Chippewa County Health Department announced.
“It is advisable for individuals to not swim following a strong and persistent on-shore wind,” the news release said.
In addition, children who continuously go in and out of the water are at a greater risk for contracting the infection, which presents as an itchy rash on the body.
Also called cercarial dermatitis, the rash is caused by an allergic reaction to certain parasites that infect some birds and mammals and are then released from infected snails into water. If the parasite comes into contact with a swimmer, it burrows into the skin, causing the allergic reaction and rash.
Aside from staying out of the water, toweling off “vigorously” immediately after leaving the water can help prevent swimmer’s itch.
In most cases, swimmer’s itch does not require medical attention. It can be treated with the following home remedies:
- Corticosteroid cream
- Cool compress applied to the affected areas
- Epson salt or baking soda baths
- Colloidal oatmeal baths or lotions
- Baking soda paste applied to the rash
- Anti-itch lotion, such as calamine lotion
People who contract swimmer’s itch should try not to scratch as this could cause the rash to become infected. Those with severe itching should contact their healthcare provider who may suggest prescription-strength anti-itch lotions or creams.
Individuals who display signs of severe infection from swimmer’s itch are also advised to seek medical attention.
tags: Great Lakes, Health and Wellness, Lake Superior
