Swimmer’s Itch

What is Swimmer’s Itch? Swimmer’s/Clam Digger’s Itch is a skin rash (dermatitis) caused by a naturally-occurring parasite. This parasite is released from infected snails, and is most prevalent during summer months.

Who gets Swimmer’s Itch? Anyone that swims or wades in water infested with the parasite may experience this itchy rash. Children are most often affected, due to their longer time in the water. Swimmer’s Itch is not spread from person to person, and does not indicate water contaminated with sewage.

What are the symptoms of Swimmer’s Itch? Within minutes to days after swimming in water infested with the parasite, you may experience tingling, burning or itching of the skin. Small reddish pimples appear within 12 hours. Pimples may develop into small blisters. Itching may last up to a week or more, but will gradually go away. Because Swimmer’s Itch is caused by an allergic reaction to infection, the more often you swim or wade in contaminated water, the more likely you are to develop more significant symptoms.

What is the treatment for Swimmer’s Itch? Most cases do not require medical attention. Skin lotions containing corticosteroids, anti-itch medications, Calamine lotion or taking baking soda or oatmeal baths may provide some relief from the itching. Scratching should be minimized, as this may lead to infections.

What is the prevention for Swimmer’s Itch? The most effective prevention is to towel off vigorously after emerging from the water, and not to air-dry the skin. This will physically remove the parasite from the skin. Showering after emerging from the water can have the same effect. There is no effective treatment for the water that contains the parasite. As a general rule, there should be no feeding of ducks, geese or gulls at the beach to minimize the spread of the parasite that causes Swimmer’s Itch.

For more information, feel free to contact the Madison Health Department.