(Greensburg, IN) – The Decatur County Health Department has received the latest laboratory water sample test results from Lake McCoy. Total Coliform samples tested at the maximum levels at all test sites collected, indicating lake wide bacterial colonies.
Coliform bacteria get their name from the Coli culture test, which is a test used to detect these bacteria in water and other samples. They are a group of rod-shaped microorganisms that are commonly found in the environment.
Generally, coliform bacteria do not cause disease. But the presence of a high level of coliform bacteria is usually an indication that other disease-causing organisms may be present in the lake. While they’re not always harmful, coliform bacteria can cause serious illness if ingested or when they come into contact with open wounds.
Although water temperatures are still very cold, Environmental Health Specialist Leah Root advises avoiding swimming in lakes that have coliform bacteria blooms. Coliform bacteria can cause many health problems, including gastroenteritis, eye infections, and skin rashes. Some people are also allergic to coliform bacteria.
Coliform bacteria in lakes can come from a variety of sources, including feces, soil, vegetation, and animal carcasses. They can also be introduced into lakes through stormwater runoff and wastewater discharge. Coliform bacteria can survive in a wide range of environmental conditions, so they can be found in both fresh and saltwater.
Other common causes of coliform bacteria in lakes include:
· Improperly treated or discharged wastewater
· Bacteria blooms
· Agricultural runoff
· Septic tanks
· Animal waste
· Human feces
Each of these sources can introduce coliform bacteria into lakes, and these bacteria can survive in a wide range of environmental conditions.
If you do choose to swim in a lake with coliform bacteria, it’s important to take precautions. Make sure to shower and wash your clothes immediately after swimming. Also, avoid swallowing any water while swimming. If you experience any symptoms after swimming in a coliform bacteria-containing lake, contact your doctor.
Swimming in contaminated water can lead to a variety of health problems, including gastroenteritis, eye infections, and allergic reactions. It’s best to avoid swimming in Coliform bacteria-containing lakes, but if you do choose to swim, take precautions by showering and washing your clothes immediately after swimming, and avoid swallowing any water. If you experience any symptoms after swimming in a coliform bacteria-containing lake, contact your doctor.
(Decatur County Health Department press release)
