More Illnesses Reported after E.Coli Exposure Near Lake Anna
The source of the outbreak is still not yet known.
by Hank Silverberg
CORRESPONDENT
More people have become ill after being exposed to E.coli in the Lake Anna area over the last few weeks.
The Virginia Department of Health says 25 people have been sick and nine have been hospitalized after contact with the water in Lake Anna between May 27 and June 4.
But the VDH still doesn’t know if the water in the lake caused the illnesses.
Tests of the water from four areas of the lake have come back negative, including from an area where cows were seen near the lake.
The VDH also says water from a nearby partially constructed restaurant was also negative for E.coli and reports of a food truck on the site have also been ruled out.
Spokesman Larry Hill says the department is now doing a second round of tests from a larger area to try and track down the source of the E.coli.
The public beaches at Lake Anna are still open for swimming.
VDH is advising that anyone who comes in contact with the water to shower right afterwards.
Other tips to avoid getting ill:
Never drink untreated water and don’t swim in lakes, rivers or the ocean if you have cuts or open wounds.
Wash your hands after using the bathroom and before preparing or eating food.
Avoid swimming near storm drains where contaminated runoff might be abundant.
Avoid swimming in untreated water, like rivers and lakes, for three days after a heavy rain because of possible runoff contamination.
If you were in the Lake Anna area on Memorial Day weekend or since and are experiencing gastrointestinal illness, contact the local health department and seek medical care.
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It appears, logically, Lake Anna has caused the illness!
Will washing our hands solve the problem!?? Better research necessary.