Cases of swimmer's itch pop up around the world, mostly during summer months, the health officials said. Not everyone who swims in water with the parasites will be infected, but the longer a swimmer is in contact with them, the higher the chances of catching swimmer's itch.Those who have contracted swimmer's itch may start to show symptoms within a short period of time, with small reddish pimples appearing about 12 hours after exposure, the health department said.
Health officials also said that tingling, burning or itching of the skin could occur as soon as minutes after exposure, or could take a few days.In order to prevent a possible case, towel off and shower immediately after getting out of the water, thoroughly rinsing all areas, includes under the bathing suit.
Children are more susceptible, as they will go in recreational swimming areas for hours and are less likely to dry themselves off after coming out of the water. While the rash will be itchy, scratching it will only lead to infection, according to health officials. The itchy feeling will go away in a short period, though any of the following can be used to help soothe the feeling:Applying baking soda paste to rashMost cases of swimmer's itch don't require medical attention, but if an infection does develop, contact a health care provider immediately.