Health officials warn of Swimmer's Itch cases at Connecticut beach
GREENWICH, Connecticut (WABC) -- Health officials in Connecticut are warning residents about multiple instances of Swimmer's Itch at Greenwich Point beach.
Swimmer's Itch, also called cercarial dermatitis, appears as a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites that are released from snails into fresh and salt water, experts say.
The parasites burrow into the skin of a swimmer, causing small blisters that can burn or itch.
It is found throughout the world and surfaces during summer months.
Officials say it isn't contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. However, prolonged contact in the water can increase a person's risk.
Symptoms include:
- Tingling, burning or itching of the skin within minutes or days
- Appearance of small reddish pimples on the skin within about 12 hours
- Small blisters may occur at the site of the small pimples within a short period of time
Most cases of Swimmer's Itch don't require medical attention, but if a rash does develop, treatment can include use of corticosteroid cream, anti-itch lotion, applying baking soda, soaking in colloidal oatmeal baths or bathing in Epsom salts.
The best way to prevent Swimmer's Itch is drying off with a towel immediately after leaving the water and showering.
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