The water park at Prairie Winds Park in northeast Calgary has been shut down by AHS due to an E. coli outbreak.
The Primary and Preventative Health Services’ Calgary Zone Medical Officer of Health and Alberta Health Services Environmental Public Health are investigating three cases of Shiga toxin-producing E.coli (STEC) associated with the water park, they said Friday.
They said that people who visited the water park between July 25 and Aug. 4 may have been exposed. A public health inspector has visited the site, and the operator has put measures in place to prevent further spread.
“Out of an abundance of caution, the spray park will be voluntarily closed for one week effective August 7, 2026, while public health officials continue their investigation and further cleaning and testing can be completed,” read an Alberta Health news release.
Public Health Alberta (PHA) said that they are working closely with the operator to identify the source of the infection, assess further risk and prevent other illnesses.
The City of Calgary operates the spray park and the wading pool.
This weekend, the Philippines Summer Festival was slated to take place at Prairie Winds Park, though it’s not certain if they were impacted by the closure.
If you have been in the area and you are experiencing symptoms, you can see your primary care provider for an assessment. Ongoing hydration is important for those who experience gastrointestinal issues.
STEC is spread when someone comes into contact with infected feces and then touches their mouth with unwashed hands.
It causes diarrhea and stomach cramps, though most people with healthy immune systems recover, according to PHA.
Prevent the spread by frequently washing hands.
