7/20/2006
Vancouver Lake reopened for water activities
Vancouver, WA – Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation and Clark County Public Health have reopened Vancouver Lake for swimming, wading, and wind-surfing. The lake was closed last Friday when regular water testing detected E. coli above acceptable levels.
“We’ve tested the water twice this week and results from both tests indicate that E.coli levels are now within the range that’s considered safe for swimming and other water activities. We’re happy that the lake is available to recreationists in time for the expected hot weather this weekend,” said Clark County Health Officer Dr. Alan Melnick.
E coli. is a bacteria that can live in the intestines of animals and people. Swimmers or waders who are ill with diarrhea can easily contaminate bodies of water, such as pools or lakes. People who swallow water that has been contaminated with feces may become sick. E. coli Infections can be very mild (even asymptomatic) or very severe, even fatal. One type of E. coli, E. coli O157:H7 typically causes diarrhea, often bloody, and often with vomiting or severe stomach cramps.
Here are some tips for preventing water contamination and avoiding illness:
• Don’t swim when you have diarrhea.
• Do not allow children in diapers or pull-ups to swim or wade in any lake or pool.
• Change diapers in a bathroom, not at the poolside or lakeside.
• Don’t swallow the water you swim in. If possible, avoid getting water in your mouth.
• Shower thoroughly with soap and warm water before and after swimming and make sure your child does too. Wash your hands after using the toilet or changing diapers.
• Take your kids on frequent bathroom breaks and check diapers often.
For more information, visit www.clark.wa.gov/health/environmental/pools/index.html.
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