News Release

WINONA LAKE – At this time, there is no evidence of transmission of COVID-19 in surface water of lakes and streams.

The Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams, based at Grace College in Winona Lake, urges families and individuals to use caution before visiting beach areas or other lake-related gathering spaces this summer; however, there is less concern for activities out on the open water or in the water itself.

Coronavirus may be present in untreated wastewater or sewage that contains human waste, but it has not been found to be stable in a water environment.

There is, however, more opportunity for coronavirus to spread between people gathering at a lake or stream if social distancing is not practiced. Follow CDC and State of Indiana guidelines; those can be found at: www.coronavirus.in.gov.

As they are made available, Lilly Center researchers will continue to monitor scientific studies for new information. Weekly research, education, and collaboration updates will be posted to the center’s Facebook page and on their blog.