UPDATE 8/8/2024 11:40 a.m.
On Thursday, August 8, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) confirmed that follow-up bacterial samples from both Lighthouse Beach and Silver Lake State Playground at Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County no longer contain elevated levels of E. coli, lifting the water contact advisory.
8/7/24 10:45 a.m.
On Tuesday, August 6, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) and Ferris State University reported elevated E. coli levels in samples from Silver Lake State Park in Oceana County.
Residents and visitors should be advised of unusually high levels of E. coli bacteria at Lighthouse Beach and Silver Lake State Playground.
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.
Confirmation samples will continue to be collected. When levels have reduced, DHD#10 will notify the public that the Public Health Advisory has been lifted.
For up-to-date results, please visit EGLE’s BeachGuard site: https://www.egle.state.mi.us/beach/.