14 Sick After Visiting McMenamins Anderson School Pool in Bothell

Public health officials in Washington state are currently investigating a series of illness reports linked to the popular McMenamins Anderson School swimming pool in Bothell. At least 14 people have reported experiencing symptoms consistent with waterborne infections after visiting the facility earlier this summer, prompting an immediate response from health authorities.

Public Health – Seattle & King County confirmed that they are working closely with the management of the historic hotel and entertainment complex to identify the source of the illnesses. While the specific nature of the pathogens has not been publicly identified, officials are conducting water quality testing and reviewing pool maintenance logs to determine if environmental factors or improper chemical levels contributed to the reported health issues.

For many residents and summer tourists, the Anderson School pool is a landmark destination. Housed in a renovated 1931 junior high school building, the facility is known for its tiled murals and unique architecture. However, the recent reports have cast a shadow over the popular community spot. Health department investigators are urging any patrons who visited the pool during the specified timeframe and subsequently developed gastrointestinal or skin-related symptoms to contact them as part of the ongoing investigation.

Outbreaks related to recreational water facilities are not uncommon, but they require swift action to prevent further spread. Common culprits in such instances include parasites like Cryptosporidium or bacteria like E. coli and Pseudomonas, which can sometimes survive in treated water if chemical levels are not properly maintained or if the pool’s filtration system is overwhelmed by a high volume of visitors.

In response to the reports, McMenamins issued a statement expressing cooperation with the health department. The company noted that they follow stringent cleaning protocols and state-mandated safety guidelines. "The health and safety of our guests remain our top priority," a representative stated, adding that the company is taking all necessary steps to ensure the pool meets rigorous hygiene standards before any further public use is permitted.

As of now, officials have not mandated a permanent closure, but they are monitoring the facility closely. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper hygiene for swimmers. Public health experts generally advise that individuals should not use a pool if they are currently experiencing diarrhea or other contagious symptoms, as this significantly increases the risk of contaminating the water for others. Furthermore, showering before entering the pool and avoiding swallowing pool water are considered essential habits for maintaining public health in shared aquatic environments.

While the investigation continues, the local community remains cautious. Families who frequented the pool during the summer months are being encouraged to monitor their health. If anyone who visited the Anderson School pool feels unwell, they should contact their local health provider to report their symptoms and receive appropriate testing. The county health department is expected to release more findings once the laboratory results from the pool water samples are finalized.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining public safety in busy, high-traffic recreational facilities. For now, the focus remains on containment and the identification of the specific environmental cause. Further updates from health officials are expected in the coming days as the investigation reaches its next phase.

Consult a healthcare professional.