Health officials are advising the public to avoid swimming at all Collier County beaches due to elevated bacteria levels caused by Hurricane Helene.
The Collier County Department of Health has issued a swim advisory after heavy winds and rainfall from the storm severely impacted coastal waters. The department says excessive rain and storm surge raised bacteria levels, which can come from failing septic systems, sewer line breaks, overflowing manholes and wildlife.
The department has begun testing beaches that are safe for staff to access. Health officials will continue testing as conditions allow.
“The bacteria we’re primarily concerned about is enterobacteria, which lives in mammals or animals,” said Kristine Hollingsworth, spokesperson for the Collier County Department of Health. “When levels rise above EPA standards, it can cause gastrointestinal illnesses, and if you enter the water with cuts or sores, it can lead to infections.”
Symptoms to watch for after exposure to contaminated water include redness, swelling or infection at the site of cuts or sores. If ingested, the bacteria can cause stomach issues or other gastrointestinal symptoms.
In addition to the bacteria, the storm has also washed debris onto the beaches, which can pose a danger and may also carry harmful bacteria.
Health officials are urging the public to stay out of the water until further test results confirm it is safe to swim again.
Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.