LAKE COUNTY? Concerned citizens called on the county health department for answers regarding a rash appearing on those who swam in Clear Lake.
According to a press release from the Health Services Department for the County of Lake, a condition called “Swimmer”s Itch or Cercarial Dermatitis,” a skin rash that is not contagious (cannot be passed from one person to another), is an allergic reaction to infection with certain microscopic parasites of birds and mammals.
In order to avoid developing the rash, swimmers are advised to avoid swimming or wading in or near marshy areas of the lake where snails are commonly found.
Toweling off immediately after exiting the water is also recommended to prevent the possibility of developing the rash. Feeding birds in swimming areas may bring the parasite closer to humans. The rash usually lasts up to a week and typically goes away on its own. Most cases do not require medical attention, according to the press release. The county”s Environmental Health division assures the public that swimmer”s itch is a natural occurrence that affects lakes, ponds and oceans throughout the world and is not specific to Clear Lake.
For more information go to the Center for Disease Control Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/parasites/cercarialdermatitis/factsht.
