Health Department: High bacteria levels at Navarre Beach pose health risk
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Health Department: High bacteria levels at Navarre Beach pose health risk
The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County is reporting water quality issues at Navarre Beach. Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines. The presence of enteric bacteria can be an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife.
The Florida Department of Health in Santa Rosa County is reporting water quality issues at Navarre Beach.
Tests completed on July 24 indicate that the water quality at Navarre Beach at the public access 37A (at the west end of the beach before the National Seashore) and 40B (towards the east end of the beach close to Navarre Pier) does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health.
Enterococci are enteric bacteria that normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals, according to the Health Department. The presence of enteric bacteria can be an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage. If they are present in high concentrations in recreational waters and ingested or enter the skin through a cut or sore, they may cause disease, infections, or rashes.
DOH-Santa Rosa advises against any water-related activities at this location due to an increased risk of illness in swimmers. Sampling conducted during regular water quality monitoring showed that the level of bacteria exceeds the level established by state guidelines.
This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches.