If you’re planning on taking a trip to the beach and a dip in the ocean, make sure you avoid these few beaches across the Tampa Bay area. Beaches in Hillsborough, Manatee, and Sarasota counties are still being affected by high bacteria levels, prompting “no swim” advisories for several beaches in each county, according to their respective health departments.
Each of these beaches has high enterococci bacteria levels, which usually is found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County said. The bacteria can cause disease, infections, and/or rashes.
The bacteria-infected water indicates the presence of fecal pollution, which can come from stormwater runoff, pets, and wildlife, and sewage.
Under a “no swim” advisory, the beaches remain open, but wading, swimming, and water recreation are not recommended.
