HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.24.26 For Immediate Release_ Butte County Public Health to Conduct Additional Testing for E. coli 0157 in Big Chico CreekFrom:Almaguer, Lisa
To:BOS; Soderstrom, Monica; Beaudoin, Jarett; Blankenship, DeAnne; Skyler Lipski; Miranda Bowersocks; Cox, Erin;
McSpadden, Elaine; Nicholas, Jodi; Putnam, Jodi; Wais, Ashley; York, DeLellis
Subject:For Immediate Release: Butte County Public Health to Conduct Additional Testing for E. coli 0157 in Big Chico
Creek
Date:Friday, April 24, 2026 9:04:51 AM
The following press release will be issued shortly….
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2026
Butte County Public Health to Conduct Additional Testing for
E. coli O157 in Big Chico Creek
BUTTE COUNTY, Calif. – As the summer season approaches, Butte County Public Health
(BCPH) will conduct additional water sampling in Big Chico Creek in early May to test for the
presence of E. coli O157.
Water samples will be collected and sent to the State Water Board laboratory for analysis. Due
to the specialized nature of this testing, results may take several weeks to be completed.
Public Health will share results with the community as soon as they become available.
“If the water samples come back negative for E. coli 0157, we’ll plan for another round of
testing mid-summer,” stated Dr. Jarett Beaudoin, BCPH Health Officer. “We’ll continue to
monitor and investigate any new human cases to ensure there’s no connection with the
creek.”
The E. coli 0157 water test, conducted by BCPH, is separate from the routine testing at
Sycamore Pool done by the City of Chico during the swimming season.
Reminder: Natural Waterways May Contain Harmful Bacteria
Residents are reminded that creeks, streams, and other natural bodies of water can contain
harmful germs and bacteria, even when the water appears clean. Swimming or playing in
these waters can increase the risk of waterborne illness or infection.
As temperatures rise and more people seek outdoor recreation, Public Health encourages the
community to use caution when swimming or recreating in natural waterways. This is
especially important for families with young children, who may be at higher risk of exposure to
E. coli and other bacteria.
How to Stay Safe in Natural Waterways:
When swimming or recreating in creeks, rivers or lakes, always take these precautions:
Wash your hands before eating or drinking.
Keep water out of your mouth.
Be cautious with babies and toddlers; they often swallow water by accident.
Use properly fitted swim diapers for young children who aren’t potty trained.
Use restrooms if available.
Rinse off with clean water after swimming.
Don’t swim if you have open wounds or have had diarrhea in the past 2 weeks.
Pick up after pets and throw away waste properly.
Symptoms of E. coli infection, after contact with creek water, include diarrhea, stomach
cramps, or fever. Residents who suspect that they’ve been infected with a waterborne illness
should contact their healthcare provider. They may also call and report their illness to Butte
County Public Health at: 530-552-3929.
Background
Testing for E. coli O157 in Big Chico Creek began last July following a Public Health response to
a cluster of illnesses linked to recreational water exposure in the creek. While routine water
monitoring typically looks for general indicator bacteria, E. coli O157 is a specific strain that
can cause more severe illness.
Previous rounds of testing detected E. coli O157 in portions of the creek, prompting public
health advisories and continued coordination with local and state partners.
Public Health has not identified a single confirmed source of contamination. However, based
on the available information, the bacteria are most likely coming from natural animal sources,
such as wildlife or livestock.
Pinpointing an exact source in a natural waterway can be difficult. Bacteria levels can change
over time and are influenced by environmental conditions, and water samples only reflect
what is present when they are collected. Factors such as changes in the watershed, including
erosion from past wildfires, may also affect how bacteria enter or remain in the creek.
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Please note that my email has changed. Please update your records:lalmaguer@buttecounty.ca.gov Lisa AlmaguerCommunications/Public Information OfficerButte County Public Health | Nationally Accredited since 09/13/17
2080 E 20th St., Suite 180 • Chico, CA 95928T: 530.552.4042 | M: 530.966.1686
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