Authorities in Elkhart Lake have been alerted to the presence of swimmer’s itch on the Villages beaches.
The Elkhart Lake Police Department has received notification and is now warning the public to take caution to avoid an infection.
Swimmer’s itch is a parasitic infection that can cause burning, tingling, or itching of the skin, reddish pimples, and small blisters.
It is caused by an allergic reaction to an infection from microbes that burrow under a person’s skin.
Tips to reduce the chances of being infected include showering or drying off immediately after leaving the water and reducing time spent in contaminated waters.
While most cases of swimmer’s itch do not require medical attention, if a rash is present, it is recommended to bathe in Epsom salt, apply cool compresses to affected areas, or use anti-itch lotions.
More information on swimmers’ itch can be found online by visiting cdc.gov/swimmers-itch.
