The two most common reasons for beach closures are elevated concentrations of E.coli and/or cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms. Below, we specifically discuss E. coli and what it means for our lakes and beaches.
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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.
Marine beaches also contain higher levels of Firmicutes, aerobic Gram-positive bacteria commonly found in the human gut, and Planctomycetes, a phylum of bacteria that may have beneficial relationships with marine algae.
Vibrio bacteria risksVibrio 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.
Some cities also have joint sewer and stormwater systems that can overflow—this leads to “a mixture of raw, untreated sewage and stormwater” that can sometimes flow onto recreational beaches, said Rumpler. Runoff water from large farms can sometimes also contaminate beaches, he added, as can feces from wildlife.
Sources of E. coli can include untreated human sewage, failing septic tanks, livestock agriculture, pets, wildlife, and illegal connections from home sewer systems to surface water.
Microorganisms are a significant component of beach sand – bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses have all been isolated from beach sand, and some are potential pathogens.
Beach and riverbed sand is naturally low in dust and hardly gives off any residue when touched. This is because even though the sand is composed of crystalline silica it does not contain the dangerous dust.
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.