Klineline Pond is Closed for Swimming

Our partners at Clark County Public Health issued the following press release on the closure of Klineline Pond to swimmers due to bacteria in the water: 

 

Salmon Creek Regional Park will remain open to the public

Contact

Alan Melnick, Health Officer, Public Health Phone:  (360) 397-8412  alan.melnick@clark.wa.gov Brian Potter, Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation Phone:  (360) 487-8323  brian.potter@ci.vancouver.wa.us

Clark County Public Health is investigating several cases of shigellosis sonnei, a bacteria that causes illness and is spread through fecal-oral transmission. The first case of shigellosis was reported July 17. Today, the investigation has identified Klineline Pond, north of Vancouver as a likely source of the infection. To prevent further spread of the bacteria, Klineline Pond is closed to swimming, effective today.

Public Health will monitor and test the pond for bacterial contamination throughout the next week and will advise the public when water contact is considered safe again. Swimmers are encouraged to visit the Vancouver-Clark Parks & Recreation Web site for other swimming options.

Individuals who have been in contact with the water at Klineline Pond between June 27 and July 25 and who are experiencing symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea, fever, and cramping abdominal pain should call  1-800-203-7491  and see their healthcare provider.

What is Shigellosis?
Shigella sonnei is one of several strains of shigella, a bacteria that lives in human intestines. Shigellosis is characterized by acute onset of diarrhea, usually accompanied by moderate to high fever and cramping abdominal pain; sometimes with nausea and vomiting. Illness usually lasts three to 10 days. People can carry the bacteria and not have symptoms. Infections can be severe, particularly in young children and the elderly and may require hospitalization.

Individuals can transmit shigella as long as organisms are excreted in feces, typically one to four weeks after onset. It is important to wash hands thoroughly after changing diapers and coming into contact with fecal material to prevent the spread of shigella bacteria.