Elbow River contaminated with bacteria near Calgary’s Sandy Beach

Alberta Health Services is asking people not to swim in the Elbow River within the City of Calgary between Sandy Beach and 9 Avenue S.E. due to bacteria that can cause vomiting and diarrhea.

AHS extended its contaminated water advisory Friday due to high levels of these “fecal coliforms.” The warning was originally issued July 8 for areas of the river between 25 Avenue S.W. and 9 Avenue S.E. (The original warning didn’t include Sandy Beach or Stanley Park upstream of 25 Avenue. S.W.)

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“The public is also advised not to drink this untreated river water, as water-borne organisms, including fecal coliforms, can cause vomiting and diarrhea,”  AHS said in a statement.

Routine testing found the high levels of the bacteria. Signs are up at river access points to warn the public.

The advisory will remain in place until further notice.

READ MORE: Health officials issue water warning for Calgary’s Elbow River