We've been reading a lot recently about the extremely contaminated water issues in the
Rio Summer Olympics recently. Despite promises to the contrary by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and Rio de Janeiro and Brazilian officials, raw sewage continues to flow into the waters where Olympic swimmers and boaters will be competing. The solution according to officials? Don't swim with one's mouth open.
Photo: Lake Ming - Kern County website, Fair Use
A similar situation has just occurred here in Bakersfield with
an announcement today by the Kern County Public Health Department (KCPHD). Testing of samples collected by the KCPHD has revealed that "potentially" harmful bacteria levels are present in Lake Ming, a very popular local recreation spot.
Although the KCPHD described it as "potentially" harmful, nevertheless it issued a no contact advisory for people to avoid water from the lake. The bacteria can be ingested or enter one's body through a skin cut or sore. If this happens, one can become sick, develop a rash, or contract an infection.
The Director of KCPHD, Matt Considine, said, "Issuing a no contact advisory is a preventative measure. We will continue to test and monitor bacteria levels."
Warning signs have been placed around the lake. The signs will not be removed until further testing reveals that bacteria levels are at safe levels.
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