Health · 3 days ago

Wild swimming in lakes and rivers doubles the risk of skin rashes

A trial tested 2,368 people at four freshwater spots in Hungary, with experts confirming the results apply directly to Britain. University of East Anglia scientists found 2.7% of bathers developed skin complaints, compared to just 1.3% of those staying on land. Stomach bugs also surged in water with high E coli, prompting calls for the World Health Organization to keep tracking the bacteria.

By BriefTea Editorial · 27 August 2026 at 9:51

Reported by The Guardian · How we write briefs

Get the app

Understand this story

How reliable is this study? What causes these rashes? Who monitors water quality? Why are E. coli levels important?

More briefs

HealthCorrecting hearing loss can cut dementia risk by almost half HealthMan changes life after doctor warns liver disease could kill him HealthSweetener used in chewing gum and jam linked to strokes and heart attacks HealthMouth cancer rates up a third in UK, often with no obvious cause HealthBox breathing helps calm stress and reduce anxiety, say experts HealthNHS managers warn spiralling costs could disrupt ADHD and autism care More health stories → Browse all stories →