PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) has announced the lifting of high bacterial level advisories for three popular beach locations. The affected areas were Clearwater Beach near Mandalay Park, Sand Key County Beach, and Indian Rocks County Beach.
The advisories were rescinded following new test results received on May 15, which indicated that water quality at all three sites now meets the state guidelines for acceptable levels of Enterococcus bacteria.
READ: Brooksville Man Killed, Crystal River Pair Injured In Hernando County Collision
Enterococcus bacteria are indicators of fecal pollution, which may come from a variety of sources, including stormwater runoff, wastewater spills, and animal waste. High levels of these bacteria can pose health risks to swimmers.
ORIGINAL REPORT: The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has issued a public health advisory today for several popular beaches due to elevated levels of bacteria. The advisory affects Clearwater Beach near Mandalay Park, Sand Key County Beach, and Indian Rocks County Beach.
According to the health department, recent water samples collected from these locations showed levels of enterococci bacteria exceeding the threshold considered safe for swimming. Enterococci are enteric bacteria that typically reside in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals.
Their presence in recreational waters can indicate fecal pollution, which may originate from sources such as stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and even human sewage. Exposure to these bacteria can lead to human diseases, infections, or rashes.
READ: US Weather Alert: Severe Storms Threaten Mississippi And Ohio Valleys, Dangerous Heat Grips Texas
The advisory recommends that the public refrain from swimming at the affected beaches as there is a potential risk to bathers. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets the beach action value at 70.5 colony-forming units (cfu) per 100 milliliters of water, and the recent samples surpassed this level.
Fortunately, the health department has already resampled the water at Clearwater Beach near Mandalay Park, Sand Key County Beach, and Indian Rocks County Beach. The results of these new samples are currently pending. The public health advisory will remain in effect until the resampling indicates that the water quality has returned to a satisfactory range.
READ: Pinellas County Sheriff Arrests St. Petersburg Man On Child Pornography Charges
The Healthy Beaches Monitoring Program regularly tests Florida’s coastal beaches to identify potential water quality issues. This program aims to inform the public and protect beachgoers from possible health risks associated with contaminated waters.
In the meantime, the Florida Department of Health advises individuals who may have open cuts or sores to take extra precautions. It is recommended to keep these areas clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and water and applying antibiotic cream to minimize the risk of infection. Anyone who develops redness, swelling, or drainage in a wound or sore should seek medical attention from a physician.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
