Urgent Alert: Swimmer’s Itch Outbreak Hits B.C. Lakes

URGENT UPDATE: Swimmer’s itch is causing discomfort for lake-goers in British Columbia this summer, with officials warning about the itchy red bumps affecting swimmers. This alarming rise in cases is linked to a parasitic flatworm that mistakes humans for its usual host, ducks.

Experts from the University of Northern British Columbia confirm that this outbreak is not just an annoyance; it’s a public health concern. Dezene Huber, a zoologist at the university, explained that the tiny parasites hatch in water and enter snails before moving on to water birds. “They’re really well adapted to survive in a duck, but they’re not well adapted to survive in a human,” Huber stated during a recent interview, revealing the complex life cycle that leads to these itchy reactions.

The itchy bumps appear as an immune response when the parasites attempt to burrow into human skin, but they die shortly after entering, causing an allergic reaction. Symptoms can develop within 12 hours of exposure and may last anywhere from two days to two weeks.

Residents and visitors in areas like Fort St. James, B.C. are advised to take precautions. Ankur Pipaliya, a local pharmacist, recommends avoiding known hotspots for swimmer’s itch. If swimming is unavoidable, towel drying or taking a cold shower immediately after leaving the water can help mitigate the risk. “Dry skin promotes that allergic reaction,” Pipaliya emphasized, urging swimmers to keep their skin moisturized.

For those already suffering from itchy bumps, treatments recommended include mild corticosteroid creams, cold compresses, and over-the-counter allergy medications like Benadryl. The province also suggests using calamine lotion and taking colloidal oatmeal baths for soothing relief.

Officials stress that while swimmer’s itch is not harmful in the long term, scratching can lead to infections. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention if the itch becomes unbearable or leads to open wounds.

As this situation develops, lake-goers are encouraged to stay informed about the risks associated with swimming in local waters. For more information on swimmer’s itch and preventive measures, consult health authorities or local pharmacists.

Stay safe and share this information to help others avoid the discomfort of swimmer’s itch this summer!