Officials warn of possible bacterial infection linked to Battle Ground Lake

Clark County Public Health is investigating two cases of shigellosis bacteria reported to the department Friday.

Battle Ground Lake is possibly the source of the bacterial infection, which is spread through fecal-oral transmission, according to a Public Health press release. There are signs posted at the lake warning the public, but the lake and Battle Ground Lake State Park remain open pending further testing.

Public Health took water samples Friday and expects to have results Saturday. If test results show high levels of the bacteria, the lake will be closed for swimming and wading. The department will do additional testing Monday.

Updates about closures will be posted to www.clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches.

Anyone who had contact with the water at the lake between July 14 and Friday who are experiencing bloody diarrhea, fever and cramping abdominal pain should contact their health care provider. Symptoms may also include nausea and vomiting. The infection usually lasts between three and 10 days, and can be particularly severe for young children and the elderly.

Shigella bacteria are excreted in feces, usually one to four weeks after symptoms begin. Public Health warns people to wash their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with feces to prevent the spread of the bacteria.