By Angela Brown

Health officials warn against Swimmer’s Itch at public beaches

Jul 13, 2017 | 12:00 PM

Prairie North Health Region is advising residents they may want to avoid swimming in a number of area beaches to avoid the risk of contracting a condition known as Swimmer’s Itch. 

A public notice released on July 12 states the parasites that cause the condition have been identified at Hunts Cove and Cochin public beaches. The notice is also in effect for Battlefords Provincial Park Beach.

”It’s a question of making an informed decision based on the risks and benefits,” said Prairie North medical health officer Dr. Mandiangu Nsungu. “If I was in that situation I would not swim in that water.”

He said conditions for Swimmer’s Itch were also present in the area last year, so it’s not unusual for there to be an advisory again this year around this time.

“This problem is usually in the summer,” he said. “If the issue is no longer there I am quite sure our public health inspector will lift that advisory.”

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Nsungu added when people contract Swimmer’s Itch, the allergic reaction usually lasts for only few days, and then it goes away.  

According to Prairie North Health Region, Swimmer’s Itch is caused by the larvae of tiny parasites in the water called schistosomes.

The larvae are able to penetrate a swimmer’s skin and cause an allergic reaction, when it’s been identified in open waters such as lakes and ponds.

Some of the symptoms of Swimmer’s Itch are a feeling of tingling, burning or itching of the skin.

Other symptoms include small reddish pimples or small blisters, and a rash that usually clears up in about a week.

To help prevent the risk of contracting Swimmer’s Itch, people should make sure to avoid areas near dense aquatic vegetation that attracts snails. They should also ensure they dry off using a towel, briskly, or shower as soon as they leave the water. They should also avoid swimming in waters where Swimmer’s Itch is known to be a problem.

To treat Swimmer’s Itch, people should take a bath using baking soda. Prairie North recommends individuals use about 50 ml of baking soda in a bath filled with shallow water.

They can also take antihistamines or use an anti-itch lotion to reduce the itching.

Swimmer’s Itch often clears up on its own within a few days to a week’s time. If people find their symptoms persist following treatment they should contact their healthcare provider. 

People can also call Prairie North Health Region for more information at 1-888-298-0202. 

angela.brown@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @battlefordsNOW