Understanding E. Coli: How Stormwater Spread in Oklahoma Affects Children

An Oklahoma toddler contracted a severe E. coli infection after swimming in Keystone Lake, highlighting the risks associated with recreational water, particularly following heavy rains that can introduce harmful bacteria into lakes and pools, experts warn.

Wednesday, June 18th 2025, 10:06 am

By: David Prock


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E. coli is a bacterium found in both human and animal intestines, and while most strains are harmless, certain strains can cause infections that lead to a range of symptoms, especially in toddlers and kids.

While most people may know that E. coli can be contracted from undercooked meat or contaminated foods, there are other ways to transmission sources, including some recreational lakes or pools.

An Oklahoma toddler recently contracted E. coli after swimming at Keystone Lake, which experts say was likely caused by the excessive stormwater.

Related Story: Toddler contracts severe E. coli infection after family lake trip

Understanding E. coli in Recreational Water & Other Sources

Pathogenic strains of E. coli (Escherichia coli), especially O157, can enter natural water bodies through:

◼ Stormwater runoff carrying animal or human feces

◼ Overflow from sewage systems or septic tanks

◼ Wildlife access and agricultural drainage near lakes

Why rainfall matters

According to Dr. Jane Frankenberger of Purdue University, heavy rains can stir up bacteria settled in sediments or wash in fresh contaminants. This can spike E. coli levels sometimes above safe limits set by the EPA.

E. coli can also be present in untreated or poorly treated drinking water from wells, springs, or other non-municipal sources.

Improperly chlorinated swimming pools or even splash pads can also become contaminated if not properly maintained. With splash pads becoming more and more common around Oklahoma and the country as an alternative to pools, it's important to be aware of how well they are being maintained.

Other common risks for E. Coli include

◼ Undercooked or Contaminated Meat

◼ Raw Fruits and Vegetables

◼ Unpasteurized Dairy and Juices

◼ Poor Hand Hygiene

◼ Petting Zoos & Animal Contact

Children Are More Vulnerable

When it comes to water contamination, it's important to recognize that young swimmers often swallow more water, spend longer in the water, and go underwater more often, making them more susceptible to illness. 

According to the CDC, symptoms in children can range from mild to severe:

◼ Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)

◼ Nausea

◼ Stomach cramps

◼ Vomiting

◼ Dehydration

In some cases, Infection with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli can trigger a serious health condition called hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS).

Prevention Tips for Parents

Cook meets properly. Make sure the ground beef is cooked to at least 160°F

Rinse produce thoroughly.

Keep kids away from raw milk or unpasteurized juice.

Avoid swimming after rainfall, especially within 24-48 hours.

Teach your children not to swallow water while swimming

Practice good hygiene (showering after swimming, handwashing before eating) 

Check local water quality advisories, especially after storms.

Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality shows many state waterways impaired by E. coli and Enterococci, highlighting seasonal risks 


David Prock

David Prock is a digital content producer for Griffin Media and is a regular contributor to both News9.com and NewsOn6.com.

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