The Miami-Dade County Health Department in Florida issued water quality advisories for two popular beaches on Saturday after two tests revealed the presence of enterococcus bacteria.
You know, number two is too many.
Where is the notice about not swimming?
Tests conducted by the Florida Department of Health on Thursday showed water tests at Haulover Beach South and Crandon Park North showed elevated levels of bacteria.
Why are bacteria a problem?
The county is advising against water-related activities in these locations due to the increased risk of illness for swimmers. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enterococci are bacteria that are normally found in the human intestine and in the environment, such as soil and water.
According to the CDC, in 2017, the bacteria caused an estimated 54,500 infections among hospitalized patients in the United States and an estimated 5,400 deaths.
According to a study conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency, enterococci are more likely than any other bacteria to be associated with swimming-related gastrointestinal illness in both saltwater and freshwater, and they can even survive in saltwater.
When does this advisory expire?
This advisory will remain in place until bacteria levels are below acceptable healthy levels. Test results are available at FloridaHealth.gov/Healthy Beaches.