Thousands of Americans flocked to beaches last Labor Day weekend, but many were warned against swimming due to unsafe levels of fecal contamination. Areas from Crystal River, Florida, to Ogunquit, Maine, reported high bacteria levels linked to fecal waste, raising health concerns such as gastrointestinal diseases and rashes.
Recent findings indicated that nearly two-thirds of beaches tested in 2024 showed unsafe contamination levels. The Gulf Coast faced the highest rate at 84%, followed by the West Coast (79%), East Coast (54%), and Great Lakes (71%). Over 450 beaches were deemed unsafe for swimming at least 25% of the time.
Experts attributed the contamination mainly to outdated water and sewage systems. Additionally, urban sprawl and bad weather exacerbate the issue. Despite these warnings, some beachgoers, like visitors in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, expressed confidence in their safety and chose to swim regardless of the cautions.
Environmental assessments revealed that fecal bacteria could lead to illness in one out of 32 swimmers, underlining the serious health risks involved. Storm-related drainage has also worsened pollution, emphasizing the need for investment in better water infrastructure to protect these valuable recreational resources.
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