Swimmer's Itch Reported at Clear Lake

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  Thurston County Public Health & Social Services reported swimmer’s itch at Clear Lake on August 19, 2026“Swimmer’s Itch Reported at Clear Lake August 19, 2026 CONTACT: Renae Miller, Public Information Supervisor, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, (360) 463-0362 or [email protected]; Dr. Jen Freiheit, Director, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Swimmer’s Itch Reported at Clear LakePossible parasites in Clear Lake. OLYMPIA – Thurston County Public Health & Social Services is advising members of the community that the parasite that causes swimmer’s itch appears to be present in Clear Lake.”
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  Multiple swimmers experienced symptoms after visiting the lake“Reports were received from multiple individuals who swam at Clear Lake and appear to have swimmer’s itch.”
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  Swimmer’s itch, or cercarial dermatitis, is caused by microscopic parasites from infected snails“Swimmer’s itch, also called cercarial dermatitis, appears as a skin rash caused by an allergic reaction to certain microscopic parasites that infect some birds and mammals. These parasites are released from infected snails into fresh and salt water (such as lakes, ponds, and oceans).”
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  The rash typically resolves without lasting effects but causes itching and discomfort“Swimmer’s itch generally resolves on its own without lasting health effects, although it can cause discomfort.”
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  The county advises avoiding marshy areas“Choose not to swim near or wade in marshy areas where snails are commonly found.”
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  The county advises towel-drying after swimming“Towel dry or shower immediately after leaving the water.”
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  The county advises using waterproof sunscreen to prevent infection“Apply waterproof sunscreen to your body before entering the water to both protect you from the sun and reduce the ability of the parasite to attach to the skin.”
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  Residents can find lake advisories at thurstoncountywa.gov/lake-alerts“For more information about toxic algae blooms and health risks, and to see all Thurston County lake advisories, visit: www.thurstoncountywa.gov/lake-alerts”
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  The county did not specify if the lake is closedNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.
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  The county did not specify if the issue is ongoingNo usable supporting receipt — unverified.