Introduction

Swimmer’s itch, or cercarial dermatitis, is an itchy skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites found in freshwater and saltwater bodies. While swimmer’s itch can occur worldwide, its prevalence in Australia, particularly in warmer regions and during peak swimming seasons, is a cause for concern. 

Previously cases of swimmer itch were reported in the northern part, but recently a case has been reported in Victoria by the Australian Center for Disease Control, thus emerging in the southern part of Australia as well. This article aims to explore the information regarding this condition in detail. 

What is Swimmer’s Itch?

Swimmer’s itch is a skin condition caused by parasitic larvae: cercariae. Due to the infected snails, these parasites are released in water. Cercariae penetrate human skin when they come in contact mistakenly thinking it belongs to their natural hosts, which are ducks and other aquatic birds. Although these parasites die quickly on the human skin, they can’t survive on it, leaving allergic reactions and itchy rash. 

What are the Causes of Swimmer’s Itch

Cercarie the larvae that cause swimmer’s itch is found in freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and sometimes in marine environments. Most of the northern areas of Australia have reported some cases of swimmers’ itch. Frequently swimming in fresh water, combined with changing environmental conditions and increased numbers of host animals like waterfowl, contributes to higher risks of swimmer’s itch outbreaks.

Common Symptoms

Typically within minutes to hours after exposure to contaminated water, symptoms start to appear. Following are some of the most common symptoms:

• Burning sensation
• Intense itching
• Red and raised spots or welts (resembling insect bites)
• In severe cases blisters or pimples

*Symptoms can be uncomfortable, swimmer’s itch is generally self-limiting and does not pose serious health risks.

Measures to Take

Usually, this skin condition resolves on its own within a week but you can get online doctor advice. There are a few measures that doctors usually recommend to reduce the alleviative symptoms:

• Cold compress gives relief to the itching and burning. 
• Avoid scratching to reduce secondary bacterial infections.
• Prescribed Medication: You can contact an online GP for the prescription and according to the severity of the symptoms they will suggest you rest and medication.

If the symptoms worsen or there is a sign of infection, increased redness, warmth, or pus, are present, seeking emergency medical care is essential.

How to Prevent Swimmer’s Itch?

Minimization of the exposure is the best way to prevent the swimmer’s itch and that can only be done after getting proper knowledge about the behaviour of the parasite. 

The following precautionary measures can be taken:

1. Choose swimming locations carefully: Pay attention to local health advisories and avoid swimming in water bodies where swimmer’s itch has been reported.
2. Rinse off immediately: Rinse off with clean water and towel-dry vigorously immediately after swimming. This helps remove any cercariae from the skin before they penetrate.
3. Avoid shallow, warm water: Cercariae are more likely to be found in shallow, warm waters near the shoreline, where their snail hosts thrive. Swimming in deeper waters may reduce the risk of exposure.
4. Use water-repellent sunscreen: Some studies suggest that applying water-resistant sunscreen may act as a barrier against cercariae.
5. Discourage feeding of waterfowl: Feeding ducks and other waterfowl can increase the local population of snails that harbour the parasites, leading to higher risks of swimmers’ itch in the area.

Conclusion

Swimmer’s itch, while not a severe health threat, can be a highly uncomfortable condition for those who enjoy swimming in natural waters. By understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and taking preventive measures, swimmers can significantly reduce their risk of developing this skin condition. With the right knowledge and precautions, you can continue to enjoy beautiful lakes, rivers, and coastlines without worry. Immediate contact with an online GP can also help manage the symptoms initially and get medical advice as per the severity of the condition.