These 3 Texas Beaches Have Just Been Put On Advisory Due To Fecal Bacteria
This week, several Texas beaches along the Matagorda Peninsula and Freeport harbor have issued advisories due to dangerous levels of Enterrococcus bacteria. These insidious pathogens are harmful to human health, therefore the water is unsafe for public entry until further notice. Keep reading to see exactly where the outbreak is occurring and why you should avoid it at all costs:
Enterrococcus is a large genus of lactic acid bacteria encompassing several different species. Two types naturally reside in our intestines but can pose serious risks if consumed once outside of the human body.
Most cases of ingestion are accidental, occurring when someone breathes in while underwater. This makes the bacteria even more insidious since it can go completely undetected until symptoms arise.
Matagorda County Jetty Park is the first of three beaches currently affected by the pathogen. As of July 5, the fecal matter count was higher than 104 CFU per 100 milliliters, which is the maximum level allowed before an advisory must be issued.
Quintana Beach County Park is the second place currently experiencing an outbreak. Its fecal bacteria level was also elevated as of 10:30 a.m. on July 5, rendering the water dangerous for public entry.
Several other beaches along the Freeport Harbor have been deemed a medium threat, characterized by a yellow pin on the previous picture. Swimmers should still use caution at these locations despite them not being closed.
Did you know about this dangerous bacteria infiltrating our beaches? Has it put a damper on any of your summer plans? Don’t hesitate to let us know your thoughts!
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Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
