If you're itchy after swimming, you're not alone

If you're itchy after swimming, you're not alone



Published: Wed, Jul 27th, 2005

The health unit has been receiving many phone calls from people complaining of something that's making them itch at beaches across Simcoe and Muskoka.

It's "swimmer's itch," back again and right on schedule.

The itch is a nuisance condition caused by a tiny parasite that passes between aquatic birds and snails in its life cycle, sometimes mistaking people as a host.


It appears in shallow water when lake and river temperatures rise, usually in late June to mid-July.

While this is an irritating condition, it is seldom harmful and is not considered a health hazard.

Children are more likely to catch it because they spend so much time swimming.

The best way to help prevent swimmer's itch is to towel off vigorously or shower after swimming.

For more information on swimmer's itch and its prevention or treatment, visit the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit Web site at www.simcoemuskokahealth.org, or call Health Connection at 721-7520, or 1-800-721-7520, Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.