VDH completes investigation into E. coli outbreak in Lake Anna; cause still unknown – NBC4 Washington

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has completed its investigation into an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness that affected visitors to Lake Anna over Memorial Day weekend.

Despite thorough testing, authorities were unable to detect E. coli bacteria in the water, and the cause of the outbreak remains unknown.

About four weeks after the incidents, the VDH carried out extensive water tests, which, however, showed no E. coli contamination.. In addition, the bacterial levels in the stool were not high enough to pose a health risk.

According to VDH, an E. coli infection causes stomach cramps and diarrhea and can cause vomiting, fever and chills. In severe cases, it can damage organs, including the kidneys, and lead to hemolytic uremic syndrome, which affects the kidneys and the body’s blood clotting system.

Ava Inglett, 15, of Northern Virginia, was one of those affected by the outbreak.

She suffered severe complications, including kidney failure, and had to undergo numerous blood transfusions and dialysis sessions. Ava’s case highlighted the severity of the outbreak, but health authorities have not yet been able to identify the exact source of the contamination.

The VDH points out that natural bodies of water such as Lake Anna always pose certain health risks due to their untreated nature. Swimmers are advised to take precautions such as avoiding swallowing water, showering after swimming and avoiding the water if they have open wounds or are ill.

“I just want people to know and think twice before letting their child swim in that water because I don’t want anyone else to have to go through what my daughter went through,” said Judy Inglett.

While the investigation into the Memorial Day outbreak is complete, VDH will continue enhanced public health surveillance through July 17 in light of the upcoming Fourth of July celebration. Regular bacterial surveillance of Lake Anna will continue as part of routine public health measures.