swimmers itch Archives - KVRR Local News

“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.

July 17, 2025

Gabriel Ostler,

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…

Swimmer’s Itch appearing in lakes across the region

July 9, 2025

Juliana Pelaez,

DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (KVRR) — Every summer across the nation, lake lovers have to contend with swimmers’ itch—an annoying rash caused by parasites in warm water. “You know we’re out swimming in these usually shallow parts or warmer parts of the water. Closer to the surface. Then these parasites will try to burrow into our skin to find a new…

How to prevent swimmer’s itch

May 24, 2023

Aaron Walling,

FARGO (KVRR) – It’s summer time. Which means thousands of people will hit the lakes for the holiday weekend. While it is an unofficial kick-off to the summer, it also signifies the potential risks with swimmer’s itch. “If you swim in water that has been recently inhabited by water fowl, the potential for that parasite to be present means that…

Swimmer’s Itch is Back at the Lakes: Watch Out!

Crisp, cool water may sound inviting, but it also may contain swimmer's itch

June 16, 2017

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DETROIT LAKES, Minn. — School is out for the summer and people are headed down to the lakes. Crisp, cool water may sound inviting, but it also may contain swimmer’s itch. “Well with lake itch not so much myself but I worry about it with them,” said Emily Tomalla, who is visiting the beach with her children. “I guess we…