The CDC has issued a warning to coastal communities about an outbreak of a parasitic copepod among beachgoers, swimmers, and, significantly, fishermen. Commonly known as the sea louse, the copepod is often found on marine fish, including the striped bass. Beginning this spring, the CDC has noted cross-species transmission, with sea lice appearing on pets and humans exposed to ocean waters and carriers of the sea lice, like the striped bass.
The CDC urges anyone at risk of exposure to these copepods carry the appropriate combs and to check themselves and their families immediately after leaving the seaside.
Prolonged exposure to the parasite has been linked to cases of acute Saxatilism, with symptoms including irritability, the urge to migrate, and cravings for raw, oily fish.
