The splash pad at Calgary’s Prairie Winds Park in Castleridge is temporarily closed as public health inspectors investigate three cases of E. coli associated with its facilities. A news release from the Alberta government says health officers with the ministry of primary and preventative health services and AHS Environmental Public Health are investigating three cases of Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC). It’s the same strain of E. coli that sicked hundreds of local children at several Calgary daycares during an outbreak in 2023. The release says anyone who visited the water park between July 25 and Aug. 4 may have been exposed to the bacteria. A public health inspector visited the park and the City of Calgary, which operates the park, implemented appropriate measures to prevent any further spread, the province’s release said. The province says out of an “abundance of caution,” the splash pad will be closed for one week starting Aug. 7 while officials continue their investigation and complete further cleaning and testing. STEC is a bacteria that spreads when someone comes into contact with infected feces and touches their mouth, usually with unwashed hands. It often causes diarrhea and stomach cramps, and most people usually recover. Dehydration caused by diarrhea is the most common complication. The province says the best way to prevent the spread of infection is to frequently wash your hands with soapy water, thoroughly wash all kitchen tools and surfaces before and after meal preparation. It also says to stay out of swimming pools, water parks or other aquatic facilities for at least two weeks if you have diarrhea.
