The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County has issued a warning against swimming in Midtown Beach and Dubois Park in Jupiter due to high levels of enterococcus bacteria, indicating fecal pollution in the water. This advisory comes as Florida’s swimming season begins, with warm waters around the state typically welcoming swimmers from April through October. In addition to Midtown Beach and Dubois Park, two other bodies of water in the Palm Beach area—Phil Foster Park and Latana Municipal Beach—are currently rated as “poor” by Florida Health. The department advises against swimming in these areas, as entering the contaminated water poses an increased risk of illness.
The presence of enterococci bacteria in the water is a sign of fecal pollution, which can come from various sources such as stormwater runoff, pets, wildlife, and sewage. The Florida Health website reports that water levels in both Midtown Beach and Dubois Park are listed as “poor,” with measurements showing 71 or greater enterococci per 100 milliliters of marine water. The advisory will remain in effect until bacteria levels drop below the accepted health level of 0-35 enterococci per 100 milliliters of water. Enterococci are bacteria that reside in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, and their presence in the water can indicate the potential presence of other disease-causing agents.
Fecal contamination in the water can result from various sources, including wastewater treatment plant effluent, leaking septic systems, stormwater runoff, sewage discharge from boats, and animal waste. While infections from enterococci are typically not harmful to humans, their presence may suggest the presence of other harmful pathogens like viruses and bacteria. An overabundance of fecal bacteria in the water can lead to beach closures, swimming bans, and closures of fishing and shellfishing areas. Apart from Midtown Beach and Dubois Park, Riviera Municipal Beach and Carlin Park have a “moderate” rating for water quality, but no advisory is currently in place after being lifted earlier this year.
The Florida Department of Health has lifted advisories in several locations in Palm Beach County, following the detection of enterococci bacteria in the water. These locations include Carlin Park, Riviera Beach, Phil Foster Park, Lake Worth, Ocean Inlet Park, Sandoway-Delray Beach, and Spanish River. The presence of fecal pollution in the water poses a risk to swimmers, as it can lead to illness and contamination of the marine environment. Authorities recommend avoiding swimming in contaminated waters and following health advisories to ensure the safety of residents and visitors in the affected areas.
