06/12/2026
Hi, Folks. Unfortunately, it looks like swimmer’s itch has come early this summer. But, there are things you can do to avoid exposure or the rash that follows. Below are a few tips from the MN DNR:
Stay out of the water by the shore. The swimmer's itch organism may originate somewhere else in the lake and is being brought to your shoreline by wave action or currents. You may want to consider swimming from a raft or boat farther out from shore where you are less likely to come into contact with the parasite that causes swimmer’s itch. Of course, this strategy may not be practical if you don't swim or have young children who want to play in the water near shore.
Apply a water repellant substance such as petroleum jelly, waterproof sunscreen or other skin oils to reduce the ability of the parasite that causes swimmer’s itch from penetrating the skin.
Rash guard clothing: Wearing protective swimwear has been shown to create a physical barrier against parasite entry.
Dry off with a towel as soon as you get out of the water. When you get out of the lake, don't let the water evaporate off your skin. The organism in the droplets of water on your skin will look for somewhere to go as the droplet of water evaporates.
Timing of swimming: Concentrations of the parasite that can cause swimmer’s itch are typically higher in the morning and in warm, shallow water. Swimming in deeper water and later in the day reduces risk.
To read more about swimmers itch, visit
What is Swimmer's Itch?Swimmer's itch is a temporary skin rash that is caused by an allergic reaction to microscopic parasites that are carried by waterfowl, semi-aquatic mammals, and snails. As a part of their life cycle, these parasites are released by infected snails into the water, where they .....
