Lake Tahoe officials are urging visitors and residents to stay away from the water near Camp Plichardson after sewage leaks resulted in increased levels of E. coli bacteria in the lake.
Water samples collected near the resort on the south shore of the lake have returned with high levels of E. coli, or E. coli, a bacteria that can cause stomach disease if swallowed. The leak is traced to the broken sewer line of the resort, which has already been placed and is currently being repaired. A recent test detected pollution, according to a U.S. Forest Service news release issued on August 1. However, the authorities did not specify exactly when the samples were collected or when the leak occurred.
So far, no illnesses have been reported, but with caution, signs of swimmers, boats and paddlers have been posted to warn them away from the water between Jameson Beach and Valhalla Boat House.
The increase in E. coli bacteria shown here is resistant to the last resort antibiotic, colistin. (Credit: Janice Carr/Applications)
Nearby test sites, located just around the corner of Jameson Beach and the boathouse, did not show dangerous bacterial levels, but the area is still under a preventive water quality advisory. Popular nearby spots like Pope Beach and Baldwin Beach are unaffected.
The U.S. Forest Service, along with county and state water agencies, is currently testing water daily to monitor bacterial levels. When it’s safe, the warning signs will drop.
Officials say this is a great example of how Lake Tahoe’s summer surveillance program works.
E. coli is found naturally in the environment, but certain strains can cause serious illness. Experts recommend swallowing the lake water and washing your hands after contact with recreational water.
For more information on how to protect yourself from E. coli, visit the CDC website.
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