Kitsap County park closed as more than 20 report serious sickness

Horseshoe Lake County Park. From Kitsap County Parks



BREMERTON -- A popular recreational park is closed to swimming after more than 20 people reported suffering from diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps following a dip in the lake.

The Kitsap Public Health District and Kitsap County Parks and Recreation Department have temporarily closed Horseshoe Lake County Park in Port Orchard while they investigate multiple reports of a noroviurs-type illness outbreak, park officials said in a release.

More than 20 people reported serious flu symptoms over the weekend, 24-48 hours after swimming at Horseshoe Lake County Park. Officials closed the lake as a precautionary measure while they investigate the illness.

Public Health and Kitsap County will be collecting additional water samples for laboratory testing today, and completing a thorough cleaning of the restrooms at the park.

People who visited Horseshoe Lake County Park between Thursday, July 10 and Sunday, July 13, and who become ill with diarrhea, vomiting, and/or stomach cramps are asked to call the Health District at 360-337-5623 to report their illness.