Opelika, AL E. coli Outbreak Associated with Pool and Splash Park
The E. coli O157:H7 outbreak in Lee County, Alabama has sickened thirteen children and two adults, all of whom either played in the Splash Park or swam in the pool at the Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatic Center between June 4 and June 22. To date, five children have been confirmed positive for E. coli O157:H7 infection.
Four children were initially hospitalized, and two remain hospitalized. An E. coli infection can develop into hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), the leading cause of kidney failure in children in the United States.
“Based on the information that we have now, it appears that the common source of exposure was the Aquatic Center,” said State Health Officer Dr. Donald Williamson. “Because of the risk for outbreak of illness, it is essential that public pools and water parks follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for adequate chlorine and pH levels.”
