The Teton County Health Department has issued a warning after detecting high levels of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in Fish Creek and Flat Creek. Caution signs have been placed near Hunt Bridge on Fish Creek and near Rafter J Ranch on Flat Creek, advising residents and visitors to avoid swimming or floating in these waters until contamination levels decrease.

Health Risks and Recommendations

Water samples collected on May 27 revealed E. coli contamination levels exceeding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum for recreational water use. The Teton County Health Department, in collaboration with the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and the Teton Conservation District, is monitoring the situation closely.

Residents are advised to avoid swimming, float-tubing, or fully submerging their bodies in the affected waterways. The Centers for Disease Control warns that E. coli can cause illnesses such as diarrhea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and sepsis. To minimize the risk of illness, individuals should avoid swallowing water, rinse off with clean water after swimming, dry ears thoroughly, and wash hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food.

Sources of Contamination

This is not the first time these waterways have been flagged for E. coli contamination. Previous studies suggest that fecal matter from livestock and wildlife, as well as human sewage runoff, contribute to the contamination. While many strains of E. coli are harmless, some can cause illness if ingested. The presence of E. coli may also indicate other harmful bacteria or germs in the water.

The Teton County Health Department emphasizes that all non-chlorinated water bodies present some level of risk for pathogen-related illness, even in areas without posted warnings. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and take necessary precautions when engaging in water-related activities.

Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.