KING COUNTY, WA - Cases of swimmers' itch have been reported this week at several Seattle and King County beaches, and Public Health - Seattle & King County encourages all swimmers to take simple, common sense preventive measures.

"The parasite that causes swimmers' itch does not usually affect people, but if the water dries on your skin, they will try to stay moist by burrowing in," says Wally Swofford, Environmental Health Supervisor with Public Health - Seattle & King County. "It isn't contagious, but it is annoying."

After burrowing into the skin, the parasite dies and the body reacts by forming red itchy bumps. The itching and rash generally go away within about 5 - 6 days. Affected individuals should consult with their health care provider if the symptoms become severe or if the rash becomes infected from scratching.

Cases of swimmers' itch have been reported this week at Seward Park, Magnuson Park, Matthews, and Juanita beaches.

Tips for reducing the likelihood of swimmers' itch include:

• Liberally apply a waterproof sunscreen prior to swimming. There is evidence that this may provide some protection.
• Briskly dry off with a towel as soon as you come out of the water.
• Shower immediately if these facilities are available.
• Stay immersed in the water--wading creates the highest risk for swimmers' itch.
• Do not feed waterfowl.

The parasite that causes swimmers' itch is deposited into lakes via goose and duck droppings. The organisms then move into snails where they mature, eventually coming out to re-infect more waterfowl.