Thursday, October 1, 2026
A parasite that causes swimmer’s itch was found in Long Lake Park, according to the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services (PHSS) Department.
Cercarial dermatitis, swimmer’s itch, is caused by parasites found in birds and mammals, as well as snails in both fresh and saltwater, and is most common during summer months. It appears as a skin rash and can cause discomfort.
“Humans are not good hosts for the parasites, so they die while still under the skin, which may cause an allergic reaction,” Stuart Whitford, PHSS Environmental Health Program Manager said.
Whitford said although the parasite can only live 48 hours in lake water before it dies, the continued existence of hosts means that new parasites will continue to shed.
Though the itch can cause tingling, itching and burning, it is not known to have lasting health effects and generally resolves on its own.
Infected individuals should not scratch the area, as it could lead to secondary infection. Creams and lotions can be prescribed in cases of severe itching.
“PHSS does not close down lakes or beaches due to cases of swimmer’s itch,” Whitford said. “Our focus is to get people to take the preventative measures below to protect themselves.”
In order to avoid contracting swimmer’s itch, individuals should avoid swimming in areas where swimmer’s itch is a known problem or swim in marshy waters where snails are typically found.
Swimmers should also towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water, use waterproof sunscreen to reduce the ability of a parasite to attach to skin, and avoid attracting birds to swimming areas.
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northbeachcomm
Thank you for reporting on this issue of "Swimmers itch" that you get when you swim in this lake.
It is because of parasites in the water. They are awful, it has happened to many of us.
This is not the only local lake that has this problem.
Other nearby lakes have this parasite!
We NEED SIGNS POSTED ON THESE LAKES!
We need signs regarding this problem, in the Spanish language also!
Many families with tiny babies are in the lake. Often there is no where to wash off after getting
out of the lake! You need soap and water!
It is an awful problem.................................
PLEASE .............WA STATE DEPT OF HEALTH; RESPOND TO OUR PLEA!
Monday, June 2, 2025 Report this
Snevets
Thank you for sharing & I agree with @northbeachcomm. Apparently the lake @Millersylvania has the same problem this year just like last year.
Monday, June 2, 2025 Report this
HappyOlympian
this story is several days old. Wondering why it took so long to get mentioned on JOLT?
Monday, June 2, 2025 Report this