Beachgoers warned of water advisory

Just as the warm weather invites people back to the beach, a water advisory may keep them away.

Elevated levels of fecal coliform and enterococci bacteria have been found at Siesta Key’s Turtle Beach and also at Venice Public Beach.

Both types of bacteria usually reside in the intestines of humans and animals. They normally enter the Gulf of Mexico through stormwater runoff, sewage and animals entering the water.

If the bacteria are ingested or enter the skin through a cut or sore, they could cause infections, rashes or disease

The Sarasota County Health Department will conduct follow-up testing today and release the results over the weekend.

The county is emphasizing that it is not the BP oil spill that is causing the problems.

Contact Robin Roy at [email protected].


 

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