13/10/2025
Swimmer’s itch, also known as cercarial dermatitis, is an itchy skin rash caused by tiny parasites found in contaminated freshwater lakes or ponds. These parasites normally infect birds and snails, but when they accidentally come into contact with human skin, they burrow in and die—triggering an allergic reaction. The rash appears as small red bumps or blisters that can be intensely itchy, usually showing up a few hours after swimming. It’s irritating but not dangerous and usually clears up on its own within a week. Avoiding infested waters and showering right after swimming can help prevent it.
