Three Canandaigua Lake swimming beaches are closed due to elevated levels of bacteria. The county’s Public Health Department reports Kershaw Park, Deep Run Park, and Onanda Park beaches will be closed until additional testing confirms the water is safe.
Testing on Tuesday showed elevated levels of E.coli and other coliform bacteria due to the recent heavy rains and flooding that washed contaminated stormwater into the lake. These types of bacteria come from home and animal waste. Elevated levels increase the risk of waterborne illnesses. Beach water may appear clear but could still contain germs you can’t see.
People, pets, and livestock should avoid contact with contaminated water. If contact does occur, wash with soap and water and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems have a greater chance of getting sick if they are exposed. Symptoms of swimming-related illnesses include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, skin rashes, and eye and ear infections. If you experience symptoms like this after swimming, see a healthcare provider.
Per Canandaigua City Manager John Goodwin, “The Canandaigua municipal water supply is not affected by the bacteria detected at Canandaigua beaches. Municipal water is treated, and tested as required by the New York State Department of Health and is safe to drink.
