Floridians are being warned not to swim in the waters at Midtown Beach and Dubois Park in Jupiter due to high levels of enterococcus bacteria, which indicates fecal pollution. The warning comes as Florida’s swimming season begins, with waters typically warm enough for swimming from April to October. In addition to Midtown Beach and Dubois Park, two other bodies of water in the Palm Beach area, Phil Foster Park and Latana Municipal Beach, are also rated as “poor” by Florida Health due to high bacteria levels. The presence of enterococci bacteria can come from sources such as stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife, and human sewage, putting swimmers at increased risk of illness.
Enterococci bacteria are found in the intestinal tracts of humans and warm-blooded animals, and can contaminate water through various means such as wastewater treatment plant effluent, leaking septic systems, stormwater runoff, and animal waste. While infections from enterococci are typically not harmful to humans, their presence can indicate the potential presence of other disease-causing agents like viruses, bacteria, and protozoa. An overabundance of fecal bacteria in the water can lead to beach closures, swimming bans, and closures of fishing and shellfishing areas. The advisory for Midtown Beach and Dubois Park will remain in place until bacteria levels are below the acceptable health level of 0-35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water.
Two other beaches, Riviera Municipal Beach and Carlin Park, have a “moderate” rating for bacteria levels, but do not currently have advisories in place after being lifted earlier this year. Enterococci has been detected in Palm Beach waters multiple times this year, leading to several advisories being issued and lifted at various locations. The exact source of the contaminated water is not specified in the advisory, but potential sources include sewage discharged from recreational boats, domestic animal and wildlife waste, and other contaminants. The Florida Department of Health is monitoring the situation and will continue to update the public on water quality in the affected areas.
Swimming in waters contaminated with fecal matter can pose health risks for individuals, as exposure to high levels of enterococci bacteria can lead to illness. The EPA warns that while enterococci infections are generally not harmful, other disease-causing agents may be present in the water as well. The bacteria can be an indicator of broader water quality issues, prompting authorities to issue advisories and potentially close beaches to protect public health. As Florida’s swimming season continues, residents and visitors are encouraged to check water quality reports and adhere to advisories to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria and contaminants in the water.
Fecal pollution in Florida’s coastal waters is a concern for public health officials due to the potential risks associated with enterococci bacteria and other contaminants. The presence of fecal matter in popular swimming areas like Midtown Beach and Dubois Park underscores the importance of water quality monitoring and public awareness. While the issue is being addressed by the Florida Department of Health and other agencies, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges of maintaining clean and safe waterways for recreational use. Continued monitoring and preventive measures will be crucial in protecting the health and well-being of residents and visitors who enjoy Florida’s beaches and coastal areas.
