Health officials in Virginia are investigating a surge of gastrointestinal illnesses reported in children who visited Lake Anna over Memorial Day weekend. This inland freshwater reservoir, which spans approximately 13,000 acres and is located 72 miles south of Washington, D.C., is a popular destination for recreation, including swimming, fishing, and boating (USA Today and Fox News).

Some of the affected children have been hospitalized and diagnosed with E. coli infections. Judy Inglett from Fauquier County shared that her 15-year-old daughter required two rounds of dialysis after returning from Lake Anna (USA Today and Fox News). Meanwhile, Nate Hiner reported that his 8-year-old twins were also hospitalized, with his daughter needing blood and platelet transfusions following their visit to the lake (Fox News).

Symptoms of E. coli infection can include stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, chills, and in severe cases, kidney damage (Fox News). Health officials are urging caution when swimming in Lake Anna, despite not having enough information to issue a formal swimming advisory (USA Today).

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has stated that they are investigating all potential causes of the illnesses, including lake water and food exposures. Even though all the sick individuals confirmed swimming or other water exposures in Lake Anna, the VDH does not yet have enough information to confirm that exposure to the lake, or any specific part of the lake, is the cause (Fox News and USA Today).

Water testing is currently underway to evaluate the present concentrations of bacteria and determine whether there is an ongoing public health risk. Health officials are recommending precautionary measures such as showering before and after swimming, washing hands before eating, and avoiding drinking lake water (Fox News). Dr. Olugbenga O. Obasanjo, the Rappahannock Health District Director, emphasized the importance of these steps in reducing the risk of infection (Fox News).

It is important to note that the illnesses are not suspected to be related to Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB), as E. coli is not linked with such blooms (Fox News). This distinction aims to eliminate concerns that the outbreak might be associated with algal bloom issues, which have been known to cause illnesses under different circumstances.

Currently, recreational activities at Lake Anna, including swimming, fishing, and boating, are still permitted. The investigation continues, with authorities closely monitoring the situation. As of the latest updates, there were no swimming advisories issued for the lake (USA Today). Health officials are hopeful that those hospitalized due to this outbreak will soon recover and return home (USA Today).

The community remains on high alert, eagerly awaiting further updates from health authorities. The investigation into the cause of the illnesses at Lake Anna is ongoing, with officials meticulously examining water samples and other potential sources of contamination. In the meantime, it is crucial for local residents and visitors to follow the recommended safety measures to mitigate any potential health risks (Fox News and USA Today).