Jordanelle visitors reporting Swimmer’s Itch

Swimmers at Jordanelle State Park. Photo: Utah State Parks

HEBER CITY, Utah — Numerous guests at Jordanelle State Park are experiencing rashes after swimming in shallow areas and near the campground.

According to the Utah Department of Health, Swimmer’s Itch is a skin rash caused by microscopic parasites released into fresh and saltwater sources. The parasites adjoin the swimmer’s skin, causing an allergic reaction and rash. Symptoms include tingling, burning, itching skin, small reddish pimples, and small blisters.

The park says that anyone who swims or wades in infested water is at risk, however, it is not life-threatening. It also cannot be spread from person to person.

To reduce the likelihood of developing Swimmer’s Itch, it’s recommended to avoid swimming in marshy areas where snails are found. Also, you should dry off or shower immediately after exiting the water, and swim in deeper water away from the shore.

If you have a rash, you can try the following solutions:

• Corticosteroid cream
• Cool compress to the affected area
• Bathe in Epson salts or baking soda
• Soak in colloidal oatmeal baths
• Apply baking soda paste to the rash
• Use an anti-itch lotion