In summer, the water at the beaches can contain bird parasites that are so small that they are not visible. When bathed, they can drill into the skin a few millimeters before dying, resulting in a harmless reaction with an itchy rash.
Bathing towels occurs more often after bathing in lakes than in the sea.
It is more common for children to get a bathing itch, as they often bathe for a longer time and stay in shallow and warm water where there may be more bird parasites.
Symptoms
The itchy rashes may resemble mosquito bites and come within a few hours and up to two days after bathing. The itching goes away by itself, usually within a week.
The trouble can get worse every time you get a bath itch.
What can I do for myself?
You can relieve the itching yourself with prescription-free cortisone cream or cold conditioner that is available in pharmacies.
To try to avoid a bath itch, you can shower, change your bathing suit and dry yourself with a towel after the bath.
How does a bath itch get infected?
The bathing towel does not infect people but can be unpleasant. It is good to avoid bathing in water that is suspected to contain bird parasites.
When and where should I seek care?
The vast majority of people who get a bath itch do not need to seek care because the hassles usually go by themselves.
If you have a more severe reaction with a fever, you should seek care directly at a medical center or emergency room.
If the skin has become sore and irritated, which may be due to an infection, you can contact a health care center.