What causes swimmers itch?
Swimmer’s itch is caused by a blood fluke common in waterfowl. The itching is caused when the fluke, while in the immature stage of its life cycle, mistakes you for its primary host — waterfowl — and burrows into your skin. Aside from the annoying itching, swimmers itch is harmless to humans. The irritation can last from two days to several weeks, depending on the individuals susceptibility. Preventive measures can be taken, and there are no permanent effects from swimmers itch. Our web page on Swimmers Itch.