Family suffers from lake itch after swimming in Lake Solo, Inari
The family of Jan-Eerik Paadar from Inari has recently spent a few days cooling off by the shores of Lake Solo. On their way home, the children were puzzled about the numerous horsefly bites on their skin, despite not noticing many of the insects at the lakeside. However, upon returning home, the extent of the rashes was surprising, with red patches appearing all over the children’s bodies. It soon became clear that these were not from horseflies.
“We quickly found more information about lake itch and learned that others who swam in the area had similar symptoms. While it is quite an annoying ailment, thankfully lake itch is not dangerous,” Paadar remarked.
Lake itch is caused by the larvae of blood flukes that are known parasites of waterfowl. These larvae burrow into the skin and can trigger both immediate and delayed hypersensitivity reactions. According to biologist Jukka Ylikörkkö from the Lapland Ely Centre, lake itch is a common summertime nuisance in the northern waters. “Lake itch occurs every summer throughout Lapland. Its habitat is influenced by birds and lake snails, which are also found in Inari,” Ylikörkkö explained.
To avoid lake itch, swimmers should wash thoroughly after swimming in areas where it has been reported, allowing the parasites to detach from the skin. Ylikörkkö advises careful selection of swimming spots, noting that the larvae prefer shallow waters with vegetation.
The Paadar family has been treating the itching 24/7. Despite the unpleasant experience, they plan to continue swimming and enjoying the warm summer days. “We changed our swimming spot to a flowing body of water. It’s crucial to remember to wash thoroughly. We have plenty of waters to swim in,” said Jan-Eerik Paadar.