Due to elevated levels of fecal bacteria currently present in the water at Kinosoo Beach on Cold Lake, located within the North Zone of Alberta Health Services (AHS), AHS is advising the public not to swim or wade at this beach area, effective immediately.

Elevated levels of fecal bacteria were detected via testing of the lake water at this beach location. At current levels, gastrointestinal illness may result from ingestion of the water at Kinosoo Beach on Cold Lake. As well, there is the possibility of skin, ear and eye infections with water contact.

As always, visitors and residents are reminded to never drink or cook with untreated water directly from any lake or reservoir, at any time. Water-borne organisms, including fecal bacteria, can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

AHS Environmental Public Health officers will continue to monitor the water at Kinosoo Beach on Cold Lake.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait-times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.