Public urged to avoid water contact at Silver Lake Lighthouse Beach due to E. coli

July 3, 2024

OCP file photo

UPDATE: DHD #10 confirmed that follow-up bacterial samples from Lighthouse Beach at Silver Lake State Park no longer contain elevated levels of E. coli, lifting the water contact advisory, Thursday, July 4, 2024.

GOLDEN TOWNSHIP — District Health Department #10 is urging the public to avoid water contact at the Lighthouse Beach on the Lake Michigan shoreline at Silver Lake State Park due to elevated E. coli levels, according to a press release issued by DHD #10 Wednesday, July 3.

“On Tuesday, July 2, 2024, DHD #10 collected bacterial samples from Lighthouse Beach at Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County. DHD #10 is reporting that one of the three collected samples showed elevated E. coli levels and will continue to sample until the levels are reduced.

“Residents and visitors should be advised of unusually high levels of E. coli bacteria at Lighthouse Beach at Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County. When swimming or conducting other water activities during periods of high bacterial levels, the risk of becoming ill from contamination increases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most at risk. Flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration can occur from exposure to contaminated water. Upper respiratory illnesses, such as ear, nose, and throat infections, may also occur, in addition to skin infections if an open wound is not properly protected.

“Confirmation samples will continue to be collected. When levels have reduced, DHD#10 will notify the public that the public health advisory has been lifted.

“For up-to-date results, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard site: https://www.egle.state.mi.us/beach/.”

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