Idaho Families: Watch Out For Lake Lice This Summer!

Let's be honest, it's not fun to talk about the "dAnGeRs" of anything pertaining to fun, like how many people are peeing in the pool around you or having to hear that you should wear a helmet when you feel safe without one.

All of that being said, it's probably safe to assume that parents of small children would like to know if their child is at risk of a rash this summer.

Idaho Lakes: Stay Safe, But Don't Be Paranoid

As parents know all too well, smaller kids can and will get into just about anything. If you're taking the kiddos out for a day on the water, it can be even trickier to keep them from consuming the water or being in the water too long.

How many times have you heard of little ones complaining or crying when "it's time to go"? It happens all the time, and parents should express some caution (but don't freak out) when taking the kids to the lake.

If you're not aware of what's going on, your child could wind up with a summertime rash.

"Lake Lice" Is Real, But It's More Of A Nuisance Than Anything

According to experts, this year is the most prominent time of year for "lake lice" or swimmer's itch. Also known as cercarial dermatitis, swimmer's itch is a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to certain microscopic parasites. When coming into contact with a swimmer, it "burrows into the skin," causing the rash.

The symptoms can appear within moments or days after coming into contact with the contaminated water. But, what's considered "contaminated"?

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Experts say that larvae are mostly found in shallow water by the shoreline, which is where a lot of smaller children like to play and hang out.

How To Protect Your Kids From "Lake Lice"

Experts say to refrain from attracting birds with food to your area of the water, as they could be carrying the parasite. They also say to avoid areas where snails are commonly found, like marshy areas or ponds.

One of the most important tips is also one of the easiest: towel dry or shower immediately after being in lake water.

There's no major cause for concern if your kiddo ends up with a rash from the lake. Most of the symptoms can be alleviated with anti-itch lotions, baking soda pastes, cool compressions on the rash, and the use of corticosteroid cream.