The Water at the Beach Looks Clean, But is it?
Contact: Michelle Peregoy (804) 864-7963
Overview:
Each year during swimming season, beach swimming waters are tested by the Virginia Department of Health. Monitoring of beach water quality by local health and environmental officials is necessary to warn citizens when there is a problem. Trash in the water is easy to identify as a problem. Often it’s the things we can’t see, such as bacteria and other microorganisms that should concern us. If you or your family is exposed to these disease-causing organisms, you may become ill.
What you need to know:
- Bacteria and microorganisms in beach water can come from sewage overflows, polluted storm water runoff, sewage treatment plant malfunctions. boating wastes and malfunctioning septic systems.
- Disease causing bacteria can cause signs and symptoms of Gastroenteritis such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.
- Disease causing viruses can cause fever, common colds, gastroenteritis, respiratory infections and hepatitis (liver disease).
- Skin reactions, includes rashes, boils and other skin
irritations may occur.
- With advance warning provided by your local health department, you will be able to decide when and where to swim. If you think your beach water is contaminated, contact your local health department.
For more information go to www.vdh.virginia.gov and click
on Beach Monitoring.
