E. coli-infected Chiang Mai waterfall

Infections in small children are particularly serious, so call a doctor if you suspect E. coli. E. coli contamination is widespread. Dr. Rungsrit warns that the waterfall’s lovely appearance masks hazardous microorganisms. The doctor doesn’t know who’s responsible for fixing the long-standing problem. “It’s tragic that we’ve let nature deteriorate.” This issue has lasted years.

Doctor warns against drinking or washing face in waterfall. “There’s a beautiful waterfall on the left side of Doi Suthep before the Khun Kan bend near the viewpoint. Tourists, runners, and cyclists regularly rest near the waterfall. Face-washing is common. People drink from the waterfall. Recently, water samples from mountain sources were analyzed. This waterfall was E. coli-contaminated.

Dr. Rungsrit Kanjanavanit, a Green Globe-winning conservationist and cardiology professor at Chiang Mai University, warns that a popular waterfall on Doi Suthep mountain is teeming with E. coli bacteria from human feces. The doctor says the results aren’t surprising considering tens of thousands of people visit Wat Phra Doi Suthep daily. The doctor stated there’s no effective waste management system and sewage gets thrown in streams.

E. coli causes stomach pain, bloody diarrhea, colitis, and vomiting. Fever and renal failure can result from infection.

Dr. Rungsrit recommends against washing faces in waterfalls. On Friday, a Scots E. coli incident was reported. Some people can have E. coli without showing symptoms, while others may not for two weeks. Antibiotics and loperamide aren’t recommended. Drink fluids if you have E. coli symptoms. In most situations, E. coli can be treated at home.