— MCP file photo of Pere Marquette Lake taken in the summer time.
UPDATE: District Health Department #10 lifted the water contact advisory Friday, April 11. “DHD #10 confirmed that follow-up bacterial samples from both sample sites at Pere Marquette Lake – Ludington, Mason County, no longer contain elevated levels of E. coli.”
PERE MARQUETTE TOWNSHIP — District Health Department #10 is reporting that bacterial samples collected from Pere Marquette Lake Monday, April 7, show “unusually high levels” of E. coli.
DHD #10 will continue to sample the lake until levels are reduced, states a press release from the health department.
“Residents and visitors should be advised of unusually high levels of E. coli bacteria in Pere Marquette Lake — Ludington in Mason County. When swimming or conducting other water activities during periods of high bacterial levels, the risk of becoming ill from contamination increases. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are the most at risk. Flu-like symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, fever, and dehydration can occur from exposure to contaminated water. Upper respiratory illnesses, such as ear, nose, and throat infections, may also occur, in addition to skin infections if an open wound is not properly protected.
“DHD #10 is continuing to collect samples, and results will be reported when available. DHD #10 urges residents and visitors to avoid water contact … until the samples indicate the E. coli levels have been reduced.”
Fishing is not considered a safe activity. “The fish itself is safe to eat, but touching the water to get the fish would be unsafe,” said Toxicologist Lisa Fischer with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
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