A popular water park in northeast Calgary has shuttered its gates following the discovery of three confirmed cases of dangerous E. coli bacteria linked to the facility.
Prairie Winds Park's water attraction at the northeast location will remain closed for a full week starting Friday as Alberta Health Services (AHS) and City of Calgary officials launch a comprehensive investigation and complete deep cleaning and water quality testing.
Anyone who visited the park between July 25 and August 4 may have been exposed to Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STEC), AHS warned in a public health notice issued this week. The bacterial strain can cause serious illness in vulnerable populations, including children and seniors.
"Appropriate containment measures have been implemented at the facility to prevent any further transmission," AHS stated in its closure notice. Workers in full protective equipment were observed power-washing and sanitizing the site over the weekend as the investigation proceeded.
Airdrie Spray Park Also Closes
The closure comes as authorities deal with a second water quality incident in the region. Chinook Winds spray park in Airdrie has also been shut down following failed bacterial testing of water samples collected July 28, 31, and August 4. Test results showed bacterial counts significantly exceeding safe levels established by provincial health standards.
AHS has not indicated whether the two incidents are connected, though the timing raises questions about possible water system vulnerabilities across regional facilities.
Residents concerned about potential exposure should contact Alberta Health Services for guidance. The agency advises that anyone experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms following a visit to either facility during the specified dates seek medical attention and inform healthcare providers of their water park visit.
The City of Calgary operates Prairie Winds Park and has committed to full cooperation with the health investigation. No timeline has been announced for reopening beyond the initial one-week closure period.
Originally reported by the Calgary Herald.