Boating at Johnson Lake, (Brian Neben, Courtesy)
JOHNSON LAKE — E. Coli bacteria has been detected in tests held at Johnson Lake according to the Two Rivers Public Health Department.
Two Rivers advises to avoid situations that would cause someone to swallow lake water and if they have been in contact, to shower afterward. Hand washing should also be done before eating after being in the lake.
Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteremia is a bloodstream infection that can be caused by primary E. coli infections spreading to the blood.
E. coli is the most frequent pathogen causing bloodstream infections in many situations.
The most common symptoms of exposure are general gastrointestinal discomfort and skin rashes, and eye and ear infections.
Some strains can cause other severe and even life-threatening complications, such as bloody diarrhea, kidney failure, and (in rare cases) death.
E. coli contaminations in lakes can be a combination of many things, but typically it is from animal feces making its way into the lakes. This means that any lake that has a significant amount of warm-blooded animal life
The best way to stay safe is to heed all E. coli warnings and avoid swimming in lakes that have been identified as being contaminated with the bacteria.
