Can you get bacteria from the beach?

The beach is a popular summer playground for humans, but pathogens like to hang out there, too, and can infect you, if you're unaware of them. These bacteria, viruses and microorganisms can get into the water through runoff after rainfall, untreated sewage and even from other beachgoers.



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Vibrio bacteria risks Vibrio bacteria naturally occur in some coastal waters and reach higher concentrations when water temperatures are warmer, between May and October, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Many beaches may be contaminated with fecal bacteria, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Avoid swimming after it rains and wash your hands regularly to cut down on your chances of getting sick at the beach. Check with your local health department to determine if your beach is safe for swimming.

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Beach-related Illnesses Children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems are the most likely populations to develop illnesses or infections after coming into contact with polluted water, usually while swimming. Fortunately, while swimming-related illnesses are unpleasant, they are usually not very serious.

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Another potential source of illness includes some types of cyanobacteria that form algal “blooms” (discolored water) and the toxins they produce. When people are exposed to cyanotoxins, they may have hay fever-like symptoms, skin rashes, sore throat, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or even kidney or liver damage.

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You are more likely to get sick if you swim at a closed beach or one that has not been tested for contamination. Swimmers can sometimes be exposed to more serious diseases like salmonella. People can get rashes simply from getting polluted water on their skin or in their eyes.

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However, community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) has been identified since 1990 [18]. MRSA infection can also be transmitted by using recreational seawater, beaches, and pools that are not properly managed or mineral water bottles scattered around [19].

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Stomach bugs Beach sand can also harbor a number of bacteria that can cause gastroenteritis, or stomach infections that lead to diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

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Ilyas, MD. Elevated levels of ABRs on the skin lasted for six hours post-swim, according to the study To reduce the risk of skin infections, it's best to shower shortly after you've been in the ocean. Much like with showering post-workout, a shower after the ocean washes away bacterium.

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Dr Sebaratnam recommends washing with fresh water after swimming to remove 'unfavourable compounds' from the skin. However, whether or not you use soap is up to you – because there just isn't enough evidence on the benefits regarding this particular usage.

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A: Bacteria in coastal recreational waters can come from a variety of sources, both near the shore and inland. These sources include development, sewage treatment plants, septic tanks, storm water runoff, boating waste, humans, and animals.

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