Fecal bacteria in water spurs advisory for river just outside Edmonton
An advisory is in place for certain areas along a river just outside of Edmonton after elevated levels of fecal bacteria were discovered.
Alberta Health Services (AHS) issued the advisory last Friday, advising the public to avoid all exposure to the water in the Sturgeon River at the Kingswood Boat Dock, Kingswood Park Day Loop, or Kingswood Park Disc Golf Course in St. Albert, effective immediately.
Alberta Health Services stated it continues to monitor an incident where untreated sewage was unintentionally released into the Sturgeon River. Due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria and possible chemicals in the water involved in the spill, as a precaution, AHS is advising the public not to use the Sturgeon River at the listed locations during this time
“At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of this water. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact. Members of the public who are using boats, including kayaks and canoes, are encouraged to avoid contact with the water as much as possible. Rinse off after any recreational activity and thoroughly wash your hands as soon as possible,” the advisory added.
AHS also cautioned that visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or stream, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
AHS Environmental Public Health inspectors will continue to monitor the water at the Kingswood Boat Dock, Kingswood Park Day Loop and Kingswood Park Disc Golf Course in St. Albert.
Health Link 811 is available for anyone experiencing a health concern related to this advisory.