Swimming in Iowa’s many beautiful lakes is a summer tradition in the Hawkeye State. Whether you’re heading to a majestic destination like one of the Iowa Great Lakes, or taking a dip in a local swimming hole, there’s no better way to cool off. But this summer, people are coming away with something other than a wet head of hair – a persistent, annoying itch and rash that can be alarming, because many people don’t know the cause. Swimmer’s itch in Iowa is becoming a problem for locals and tourists, and it may have an impact on this year’s summer swimming season. Here’s all you need to know about what might be making you itch this summer – and how you can still cool off during the warmer months without having to worry.

Swimming in lakes, like beautiful Lake MacBride, is a great way to cool off in the summer - but swimmers may come away with an unpleasant surprise.
Dheepak Guruswamy/Google Local
The culprit is a microscopic flatworm that burrows into the skin, causing an allergic reaction known as swimmer's itch.
CDC/Wikimedia Commons
These tiny worms are transmitted via an unlikely source - aquatic snails, which make the perfect hosts for the tiny pests.
Michal Minas/Wikimedia Commons

Related Stories

This Hidden Lakeside Beach With A Splash Pad In Iowa Is A Stellar Summer Adventure

This Hidden Lakeside Beach With A Splash Pad In Iowa Is A Stellar Summer Adventure

 Here Are The 10 Most Dangerous Places In Iowa After Dark

Here Are The 10 Most Dangerous Places In Iowa After Dark

 There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In Iowa Yards That Looks Like A Harmless Weed

There’s A Deadly Plant Growing In Iowa Yards That Looks Like A Harmless Weed
The parasite usually passes through several stages before maturing in the snails - and then infecting humans who later swim in the water.
CDC/Wikimedia Commons
The result is an unpleasant, unsightly rash. The good news is, the flatworms can't actually live long-term in humans, so the rash clears up after a few days. Anti-itching creams and antihistamines can help ease the discomfort.
Cornellier/Wikimedia Commons
Iowa is hard at work combating this scourge, and it's possible that certain lakes with a high snail population may be closed to swimming so they can be treated. Keep an eye on the latest updates for your destination if you're planning a trip.
Libormikes/Wikimedia Commons
If you want to play it safe, the good news is Iowa has many other places to go swimming without the tiny residents that can give you an unpleasant surprise!
Bridges Bay Resort

Is swimmer’s itch in Iowa going to change your summer plans? Let us know in the comments section. Iowa’s Department of Natural Resources website has all the details on this growing issue. The good news is, Iowa has plenty of man-made places where you can cool off during the summer, whether you’re looking for a laid-back local waterpark or a thrilling resort.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Iowa