4th Of July Illnesses Potentially Linked To Lake Minnetonka

HENNEPIN COUNTY, MN — Hennepin County Public Health is investigating an illness outbreak affecting more than 100 people who spent time on Lake Minnetonka over the Fourth of July holiday. According to reports, individuals who were on the lake near the Big Island area were most affected.

Public health officials said those affected are reporting vomiting and diarrhea. The department confirmed 30 cases of illness, Minnesota Public Radio reported. Public health is currently running tests to identify the pathogen causing the illness. Hennepin County also is testing the lake water for pathogens.

While officials are unsure whether exposure to the lake’s water is responsible for the illness, there have been similar outbreaks in the past of people affected by e.Coli bacteria. Exposure to E.colioccurs through contaminated water, and can cause severe abdominal cramps, bloody diarrhea and vomiting, according to Mayo Clinic.

Anyone who recently spent time on Lake Minnetonka and experienced similar symptoms is asked to call 612-543-5230.