20 people, mainly children, contract E. coli infections after swimming in Virginia's Lake Anna, leading to nine hospitalizations.
As summer approaches, swimmers are urged to be cautious of bacteria warnings in lakes and rivers. Recently, at least 20 people, mainly children, reported E. coli infections after swimming in Virginia's Lake Anna, leading to nine hospitalizations. In Massachusetts, 22 beaches were closed due to "bacteria exceedance," and high bacteria levels closed three beaches in Seattle. E. coli can cause various health issues, including urinary tract infection, cystitis, intestinal infection, and vomiting, with severe cases leading to life-threatening blood poisoning. Algae, plant-like organisms living in water, can also cause algae blooms, which can pose potential risks to swimmers.