Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

Advisory Against Total Body Contact (Swimming) At Bluebell Beach, Located on Mott Lake

            The Genesee County Health Department has ordered Bluebell bathing beach closed due to elevated levels of Escherichia Coliform (E. Coli) bacteria. This bacteria is used as an indicator of the  presence of human or animal fecal material in water; and therefore, an indicator of the risk for potential disease transmission.

            The Genesee County Health Department has been, and will continue to, monitor bacteria levels in Mott Lake.  While the bacteria levels remain elevated, contact with the water should be avoided to prevent exposure to  organisms that can cause disease.  Disease symptoms may include diarrhea, cramps, nausea, and possibly jaundice, and associated headaches and fatigue.  This health advisory will be cancelled through news release when background bacteria levels return to normal.

          Additional information may be released when the investigation is complete. The Health Department reminds all persons engaged in food preparation, both at home and in a commercial setting, to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, wiping their nose or mouth, and before preparing food.  Hands should be washed when changing tasks during food preparation.  Raw foods and produce should be thoroughly washed before preparation.