Wizard Lake beach closed due to elevated bacteria; swimming advised against
Alberta Health Services has issued an immediate water quality advisory for Jubilee Park beach on Wizard Lake south of Edmonton after testing detected elevated bacteria levels.
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Alberta Health Services has advised the public not to swim or wade at the beach in Jubilee Park on Wizard Lake, effective immediately, after testing detected elevated bacteria levels in the water.
The elevated bacteria were found during testing of the water at the east-side beach location, which is popular for boating and swimming. "At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water at Wizard Lake," AHS said. There is also the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.
Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea. People are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any body of water in Alberta, including Wizard Lake, at any time.
The specific type of bacteria detected and the bacterial count level that triggered the advisory have not been disclosed. It is also not known whether the advisory applies to other areas of Wizard Lake beyond the Jubilee Park beach on the east side.
The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
The facts
Which beach on Wizard Lake is closed to swimmers?
Jubilee Park beach on the east side of Wizard Lake south of Edmonton is closed to swimmers due to elevated bacteria levels detected in the water.
What health risks does Alberta Health Services say are possible from the contaminated water?
Gastrointestinal illness may result from ingesting the water, and skin, ear, and eye infections are possible from water contact at Wizard Lake.
When will the advisory be lifted?
The advisory at Jubilee Park beach on Wizard Lake will remain in effect until further notice, with no specific end date disclosed.
