Trout Notice

The Arrowhead Lake Association has been advised that a Northern California parasite, Salmon Poisoning Disease (SPD) has been detected in our stocked trout.

As a precaution, raw trout should not be consumed by people or pets.

Questions may be addressed to the ALA general manager, John Rutledge at 909-337-2595 x111.

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Important Notice to Boaters

ALA has been requested by the California Department of Fish and Game to institute an inspection program for boats leaving Lake Arrowhead. According to the department, this process will help protect both Lake Arrowhead and other California lakes. Our launch ramp personnel have been trained on these new procedures and will be available to assist you where possible. Thank you for your assistance in protecting your lake.

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Swimmer's Itch

Swimmer's Itch is a non-contagious skin rash that generally occurs during summer months in both fresh and salt water bodies around the world. It is an allergic reaction to a larval-stage parasite which is released by snails and causes a rash when it mistakenly penetrates a person's skin rather than it rightful host - usually a duck!

Swimmer's Itch is not a communicable or fatal disease. Only about one third of the people who come in contact with the parasite develop Swimmer's Itch.

If Swimmer's Itch develops, an infected individual will feel tingling, burning or itchy skin and soon develop a skin rash. A reaction can be noted within minutes or may be days later. Rash pimples or blisters, much like insect bites, may develop and increase in size over a 24-48 hour period. Itching, which can be severe, generally continues for up to a week or more but gradually decreases.

Children are most often infected due to their habits of swimming or wading in shallow water, because it appears that parasites may concentrate near shorelines. Moreover, children's skin may be more sensitive and prone to developing the rash.

To reduce your risk of exposure:

• Swim in water away from the shore.
• Avoid swimming near or wading in marshy areas.
• Briskly rub skin with a towel or shower immediately after swimming or wading.
• Don't encourage birds/ducks to stay near swimming areas by feeding them.

If a reaction occurs, rinse the affected skin lightly with isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol and then coat with calamine lotion. Try not to scratch to avoid a secondary infection.

Over-the-counter drugs are also available to reduce the effects. Antihistamines can be used to help relieve the itching while topical steroid creams may help to reduce the swelling. Before taking any of these drugs, however, consult your physician or dermatologist for advice.

Remember, Swimmer's Itch is caused by an allergic reaction. Therefore, if you develop Swimmer's Itch once, the more often you are exposed, the more likely you are to develop symptoms that are more severe and immediate after each exposure.

Please notify the Arrowhead Lake Association at 909-337-2595 if you believe you or your child has developed a case of Swimmer's Itch.