Lindsey Eby

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — The Two Rivers Public Health Department on Thursday said Johnson Lake in Dawson County has tested positive for the E. coli bacteria.

For the second time since late May, the popular central Nebraska lake has bacteria levels high enough to be a health risk.

SEE ALSO: Health alert issued for popular central Nebraska lake ahead of Memorial Day weekend

When a lake has high bacteria levels, the health department said it’s important to use caution:

• Avoid any situation that could cause you to swallow lake water.
• If you have been in contact with lake water, shower afterward.
• If you have been in contact with lake water, wash hands before eating.

Because of the rapid changes in bacteria conditions, signs were not posted around the lake.

The health department wants people to be aware of beach conditions and use their own judgment as to whether they go into the water.