No question, it's much more common than when I was a kid. The cause is indeed a parasite and some people are more susceptible to an allergic reaction than others. The worst offender for spreading the parasite is actually the mergansers (the small brown ducks with "Mohawk" like feathers on their heads). There is some very good information on line if you search under duct itch. (Best not to read while eating lunch
) My kids had some bad cases in the past but since we started having them put on sun tan lotion before they went swimming, we really haven't had an issue. Something in the lotion seems to keep the parasites from being able to do their thing. Staying out of shallow water and toweling off right away when getting out are also good suggestions. July 4th week does unfortunately seem to be the peak of the cycle for outbreaks on Winnipesaukee.