Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health is investigating two cases of shigellosis, a bacterial infection spread through fecal-oral transmission. The cases were reported to Public Health today. 

The investigation has identified Battle Ground Lake as a possible source of the infection. Public Health posted signs at the lake this afternoon warning the public about the potential risk of infection. The lake and Battle Ground Lake State Park remain open.

Public Health collected water samples from the lake today to test for bacterial contamination and will have test results on Saturday, July 21. If the test results show high levels of bacteria in the water, Public Health will close the lake to swimming and wading.

Public Health will collect water samples for testing again on Monday, July 23. Updates about the lake will be posted on the Public Health website.

Individuals who had contact with the water at Battle Ground Lake between July 14 and today and who are experiencing symptoms, such as bloody diarrhea, fever and cramping abdominal pain, should contact their health care provider.

What is shigellosis?

Shigellosis is an infection caused by several strains of shigella, a type of bacteria that can live in human intestines. People can carry shigella bacteria and not have symptoms. Shigellosis is characterized by acute onset of diarrhea, usually accompanied by moderate to high fever and cramping abdominal pain. Symptoms may also include nausea and vomiting. Illness usually lasts three to 10 days. Infections can be severe, particularly in young children and the elderly and may require hospitalization.

Individuals can transmit shigella as long as organisms are excreted in feces, typically one to four weeks after symptoms begin. It is important to wash hands thoroughly after changing diapers and coming into contact with fecal material to prevent the spread of shigella bacteria.

CONTACT
Marissa Armstrong
communications specialist
Public Health
564.397.7307
marissa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov