Belarusian epidemiologists told their compatriots about the consequences of swimming in places prohibited for this.
We are talking about water bodies (rivers, lakes, reservoirs). But even those where swimming is allowed, under certain conditions, can have an impact on your health.
The press service of the Republican Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health reported on its Telegram channel about potential consequences and how to avoid trouble.
Swimming in lakes and rivers can lead to sudden itching and red rashes on the skin, epidemiologists say.
These symptoms may indicate infection with cercariosis, an infection caused by cercariae – the larvae of parasitic worms, experts noted.
In this regard, they gave some useful recommendations that can help avoid this kind of trouble.
First of all, experts do not advise swimming in places where the water moves slowly or stagnates.
In ponds or shallow lakes, “the likelihood of encountering cercariae is higher,” epidemiologists warn.
You should also avoid swimming in places with a large number of waterfowl, as they may be carriers of cercariae.
After bathing, you should take a shower and dry yourself thoroughly with a towel to remove cercariae from the skin.
Following these simple measures will help you avoid “swimmer’s itch” and enjoy your vacation without any harmful consequences, the Center concluded.
Earlier, the expert told how to sunbathe without harming your health.
