Bacterial Concerns Close Popular Tampa Beach

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area residents with big outdoor plans over the Christmas holiday may want to think twice about getting into the water at Davis Islands Beach. The Hillsborough County Health Department issued a notice Wednesday that water samples taken on Monday tested above safe limits for enterococci bacteria.

“This should be considered a potential risk to the bathing public,” the health department noted in an email to media.

The water will be re-sampled on Tuesday, Dec. 27. If the testing shows levels back in acceptable ranges, the advisory will be lifted.

Enteric bacteria inhabit the intestinal tracts of animals and humans. The bacteria may cause rashes, infections and disease in people.

“The presence of enteric bacteria is an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from storm water runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage,” the email said.

For more information on the water quality at beaches throughout the state, visit the Florida Department of Health online.

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