E-coli found at Lake Country beach means swimming restrictions

Following a higher than acceptable e-coli count in water samples from Okanagan Lake in Lake Country has prompted the regional district to issue a  swimming advisory today, Aug. 17.

Residents and visitors are advised to follow notices posted in the park and not to swim or in engage in recreational water activities in the lake until further notice.

If water is ingested, swimmers can develop gastrointestinal illnesses, skin rashes and eye, ear and throat problems.

Very young and very old swimmers with weakened immunity are the most susceptible to the e-coli bacteria and are advised to stay away from the water.

Beach water quality is typically poorer in the summer due to warmer water temperatures and can also fluctuate due to lake currents, outflow of creeks, changing environmental factors, and waterfowl and animal waste.

You can find more information on beach water quality here.

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