Haliburton’s health unit wants us to reduce our risk of illness after swimming in local lakes or rivers.
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit says Swimmer’s Itch is a condition caused by a parasite which can penetrate a person’s skin.
About one-third of people who come in contact with the parasites get an allergic reaction, which can cause a red spots, rashes and itchiness for a few days.
The condition does not need treatment, as it’s more of a nuisance than a medical problem, although lotions can bring some relief.
Swimmers are also encouraged to swim away from the shoreline, avoid areas where snails have accumulated, dry themselves off with a rough towel as soon as they get out of the water, and have a shower as quickly as possible.
Written by: Andreas Pandikiu