“Merganser Measles” Tormenting Residents Near Pelican Lake

Scientists say this particular parasite is 45 times more virulent than the usual ones that cause Swimmer's Itch.

PELICAN LAKE, Minn. (KVRR) – Swimmer’s Itch is a common ailment for people in Lakes country this time of the year, but those near Pelican Lake say their issue is far worse.

They’ve dubbed their strain “Merganser Measles,” as scientists have identified that the parasite responsible for the itch comes from Merganser ducks.

They say it’s significantly more prolific and harmful than traditional swimmer’s itch caused by mallards or geese.

A task force working alongside the scientists wants to capture and remove the Mergansers to try and fix the issue which locals say has gotten to an epidemic level.

“Kids have been traumatized. I’ve experienced this personally – I had three grandchildren who went in the water, this happened two years ago, and they came out of the water screaming and covered head to toe,” said Marjorie Hance of the task force. “It’s miserable.”

Another swimmer was hospitalized with anaphylactic shock after a particularly nasty case.

The task force needs approval from the federal and the state level before they could remove the Mergansers.

They say they’ve gotten the all-clear from U.S. Fish and Wildlife, but Minnesota DNR has yet to give permission.