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FAIRFIELD, IOWA -- With school out for the summer, flocks of kids and families are heading to pools and beaches to cool off. That means swimmer's itch is starting to appear, and you wanted to know more about it for Tuesday's Facebook Story of the Day.

Swimmer's itch is a rash caused by flatworms. The parasite usually infects birds or certain mammals, but if it comes in contact with a human, the parasite will attempt to penetrate the skin. It dies quickly afterwards, causing an allergic reaction below the skin's surface, causing welts and itching.

But can you get the rash from any body of water?

"No, you cannot get swimmer's itch from an indoor or outdoor pool," said Christy Leazer, Aquatics Superintendent in Fairfield. "It must be fresh water -- lakes, oceans and ponds."

While uncomfortable, the symptoms are not life-threatening and usually disappear within a few weeks. To prevent the rash, limit the amount of exposure to fresh water and towel off well when you get out. If you do contract the rash, it can be treated with antihistamines and calamine lotion.