SIESTA KEY – County Health officials issue a no swim advisory for a popular beach in Sarasota after high levels of bacteria was found.
The Sarasota Department of Health released a report on Thursday warning beachgoers to stay out of the water at Siesta Key Beach. According to the release high levels of Enterococcus Bacteria was found in the water, according to test results.
“When these bacteria are found at high levels in recreational waters, there is a risk that some people may become ill. People especially those who are very young, elderly or who have a weak immune system who swallow water while swimming can get stomach or intestinal illnesses,” the statement reads. “If water comes in contact with a cut or sore, people can get infections or rashes.”
The bacteria is naturally found in the water but human and animal waste can pose a threat if it comes in contact with people. The Sarasota County DOH warns that swimming in the water may cause serious illnesses. And residents say the county needs to do a better job at letting beachgoers know of the dangers.
“It seems like a no brainer to put signs up at the entrance, if not at the street level. Definitely at all the entrances at the public beach,” said Sarasota resident Michael Marsicano. “Just let people know, it doesn’t seem like it’s that hard.”
Siesta Beach remains open to the public. An SNN crew member reports NO SWIM Advisory signs were only found at Lifeguard Stations throughout the beach.