RAPIDES PARISH, La. (9/2/2026) — Rapides Parish officials are seeking additional information after being notified that a child was diagnosed with Shigella following a weekend visit to Cotile Lake.
According to a press release issued Wednesday, September 2, Rapides Parish Police Jury President Craig Smith said the child swam at Cotile Lake on Saturday, August 29.
The parish said it has contacted the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and Region 6 health officials regarding the matter.
Officials have not announced that Cotile Lake is the confirmed source of the child’s infection. The parish’s statement only establishes that the child was diagnosed after swimming at the lake.
What is Shigella?
Shigella is a group of bacteria that causes an intestinal illness known as shigellosis. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Shigella spreads easily, and people can become infected after swallowing a small amount of the bacteria.
Common symptoms include diarrhea, fever and stomach pain or cramps. Some people may experience bloody or prolonged diarrhea.
Shigella can spread from person to person and through contaminated food or water. Exposure can also occur when someone swallows recreational water, including lake or river water, that has been contaminated with fecal matter.
Investigation continues
At this point, Rapides Parish officials have not announced a closure, swimming advisory or confirmed contamination of Cotile Lake in connection with the reported case.
The parish says it will provide additional information as it becomes available.
Sources: Rapides Parish Police Jury; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
