Beware, swimmers. Rash-causing parasite in Thurston County could make your lake day itchy

Thurston County public health officials are warning that people should avoid swimming at Long Lake and Clear Lake, after multiple people reported having swimmer’s itch after visiting those two bodies of water.

According to a county news release, multiple reports of swimmer’s itch came from people who had been in Long Lake in Lacey. Two people who live on Clear Lake southeast of Yelm reported having the skin rash as well.

Swimmer’s itch, also known as cercarial dermatitis, is an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites that infect some birds and other animals. The parasites are released from infected snails into bodies of water, according to the news release.

The parasites could be present in other bodies of water, not just the two Thurston County lakes. Swimmer’s itch occurs more often during summer months.

The parasite doesn’t have long-term effects on people, but those exposed may experience tingling, burning or itchy skin. The best way to lower your chances of coming into contact with the parasite is to avoid swimming in areas where it’s a known problem, as well as where snails are commonly found, such as marshy areas.

People also are advised to towel dry or shower immediately after getting out of the water, and to wearing waterproof sunscreen that can make it harder for the parasite to attach to skin.

Lastly, people shouldn’t take actions that attract birds to swimming areas, the county advises.