Coliform Bacteria high,
swimmers urged to beware
SIMPSON BAY--Swimming in the ocean after heavy rains close to natural drainage outlets can be dangerous to your health, according to a recent water survey conducted by the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) and Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC).
In the nine-month-study covering March to November 2007, the researchers collected 53 water samples from ten sites around Simpson Bay Lagoon. Faecal Coliform bacteria, facultative-anaerobic, rod-shaped, gram-negative bacteria that are a direct result of raw untreated sewage entering coastal water, were found in the samples.
The bacteria results found in the samples were compared to Netherlands Antilles standards for recreational waters. Total Coliform test results were compared to water quality standards from the State of Florida, in the absence of available Netherlands Antilles standards.
The testing revealed that 18 samples (34 per cent) exceeded allowable levels of Faecal Coliform Bacteria. The highest number of violations occurred during September and March while the most troublesome sites were located near the Simpson Bay Bridge and Marigot.
In Simpson Bay Lagoon, 25 per cent of the samples were above total Coliform limits considered safe to the public while one site exceeded the allowed monthly average. Sites which exceeded the daily allowed average were located near Simpson Bay Bridge, Sandy Ground and Cole Bay. Sites that averaged lower and therefore safer, were Mullet Bay Pond and Grand Islet (Explorer Island).
Public health studies suggest that as levels of Coliform increase, so do swimming-associated illnesses. Illnesses linked with Coliform bacteria are usually gastrointestinal, according to information from EPIC and AUC. Less commonly, skin, ear and eye infections can result from contact with contaminated water.
Several studies have established a statistically significant relationship between increasing bacterial levels and increased rates of illness. The young, elderly, pregnant women and immuno-suppressed persons are especially at risk.
To reduce the risk of illness, the groups advise swimmers not to go into the ocean within three days of a significant rainfall, swim in areas up-current of natural drainages and storm drains, avoid swallowing recreational water, rinse off thoroughly (including mouth, nose, and ears) as soon as possible after swimming in the ocean, and stay out of discoloured water.
EPIC and AUC hope that these results will make the public more aware of the serious health and environmental issues we face due to improper sewage disposal.
