The Kent County Health Department says heavy rain, wildlife activity and other environmental factors can cause a temporary elevation in E. coli bacteria. A no-contact order was issued Tuesday after routine tests discovered E. coli levels above recreational water quality standards in Wabasis and Myers Lakes. Dr. Nipuni Rajapaksaha says exposure can make people sick.
“it’s a relatively common cause of illness. Generally, the symptoms would be abdominal pain, nausea and diarrhea.”
Dr. Rajapaksaha says the symptoms typically last a few days.
“E. coli generally causes relatively mild illness in otherwise healthy people but in certain populations E. coli can cause severe illness. Those are especially in people who have weakened immune systems, people who have underlying digestive system problems, young children, the elderly ans pregnant women.”
Until the no-contact order is lifted the health department says people should avoid swimming, wading or splashing in the contaminated lakes.
