Health officials across the United States have issued warnings about high levels of bacteria in coastal waters, prompting closures of numerous popular beaches before the Fourth of July holiday. These advisories have been issued due to the presence of Vibrio bacteria, which is known to cause symptoms such as fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. The closures are a significant impact on Americans’ plans to enjoy the Independence Day celebrations at the beach.
States such as California have been particularly affected, with health officials in San Diego issuing warnings and closures of several popular beaches. These closures are due to bacteria levels exceeding health standards. In New York, counties such as Suffolk and Nassau have also issued advisories due to high levels of bacteria in certain areas, including the Benjamin Beach, Ronkonkoma Beach, and Sayville Marina Park Beach. The advisories are due to the presence of bacteria as a result of heavy rainfall and stormwater runoff, which can elevate levels beyond acceptable safety standards.
Massachusetts has seen nearly twenty beaches close due to high bacteria levels, with the state’s Department of Health listing seventeen locations affected. Washington state has also issued advisories for several beaches, particularly in King County, due to high levels of bacteria. Illinois has issued thirty-four advisories, with multiple beaches in the Prairie State facing closures. In Michigan, nine beaches have been closed due to contamination from wildlife and stormwater runoff, with four additional beaches facing advisories.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that there are approximately eighty thousand cases of Vibrio-related infections reported annually. As a result of these widespread closures and advisories, public health officials are urging beachgoers to exercise caution and follow recommendations to avoid health risks while enjoying the holidays.