LEE COUNTY, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is advising the public not to enter the water at the Sanibel Causeway. This recommendation is due to high levels of bacteria identified in routine testing.
Tests completed September 7, 2018, indicate that the water quality at the Sanibel Causeway does not meet the safety criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health. Water contact may pose an increased risk of disease, particularly for susceptible individuals.
No wading or swimming at the Sanibel Causeway, is recommended.
Enterococcus bacteria normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of an elevated concentration of these bacteria is an indicator of pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife or sewage.
Elevated levels of Enterococcus bacteria have been associated with an increased risk of swimming-associated gastroenteritis illness (diarrhea and abdominal pain).
This advisory will continue until bacteria levels are below the accepted health level. New test results should be available for the Sanibel Causeway, on Tuesday afternoon, September 11, 2018.
For more information call (239) 274-2200 or go to [lee.floridahealth.gov].
