The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Sedgwick County Health Department are continuing to investigate illness cases associated with the Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard.
The KDHE became aware of the possible link in cases on June 18th, with the investigation beginning the same day.
There were 3 cases that were initially linked to the park. These cases have tested positive for the Shigella bacteria–which is spread from person to person through exposure to contaminated fecal matter. Additional testing is being done to determine if the bacteria from each person are related.
Shigella spreads easily, whether through swallowing contaminated recreational water or touching contaminated items and then touching your mouth.
The KDHE and SCHD released a survey on June 20th for people who had visited the park and later experienced fever, diarrhea or vomiting. More than 200 people responded, and the survey results should determine who else may be connected to the investigation.
If you experienced any of these symptoms on or after May 28th, 2021 after visiting the park, you’re being asked to take the survey which can be found here. If you don’t have access to the internet, but feel you need to take the survey, you can call (316) 660-5558.
The Tanganyika Splash Park is served by a water line from the City of Goddard, and records indicate that the City is supplying compliant drinking water based on their routine monitoring.
[Photo Credit: KWCH]
