Updated: 06/25/2009 11:10 PM KSTP.com | Print Story
By: Becky Nahm

Swimmer's Itch Closes Washington Co. Beach

 Prevent Swimmer's Itch

Due to reports of 'swimmer's itch', officials will close a Washington County beach for two days next week.

The beach at Big Marine Lake will close June 30 and July 1 so the lake can be treated.

Swimmer's itch is a patchy, red-pinpoint skin rash caused by the parasites of water fowl.

It's rarely severe, but the itching cal last up to seven days.

About 30 to 40 percent of people are sensitive to swimmers itch.

To avoid it, experts recommend taking a shower and drying off thoroughly after swimming in a lake.

Other Washington County swimming beaches will remain open during the treatment of Big Marine Lake. The beach at Big Marine Lake will reopen July 2.

More information is available by calling the Big Marine Park Reserve at 651-430-8200.