Davis Islands Beach Off Limits To Swimmers

TAMPA, FL — Tampa Bay area residents and visitors with plans to visit Davis Islands Beach may want to think twice before jumping in the water. The Hillsborough County Health Department issued a notice Tuesday 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 at the 864 Severn Ave. beach will be re-sampled on Monday, Aug. 21. 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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