Bacteria counts high at popular Bonita Beach Park; don't swim or wade

Chad Gillis, Fort Myers News-Press
·1 min read

The Florida Department of Health in Lee County is warning the public not to swim at Bonita Beach Park as high levels of poop-water were detected there recently.

The latest tests were taken on Aug. 16, and more results will be available on Aug. 22, according to DOH.

"Water quality at Bonita Beach Park does not meet the recreational water quality criteria for Enterococcus bacteria recommended by the Florida Department of Health," a Florida DOH press release from Tuesday reads. "Water contact may pose an increased risk of disease, particularly for susceptible individuals."

DOH is recommending against swimming and wading at the popular park.

This is part of a press release from the Florida Department of Health in Lee County that's warning residents and visitors about bacteria found at Bonita Beach.
This is part of a press release from the Florida Department of Health in Lee County that's warning residents and visitors about bacteria found at Bonita Beach.

"Enterococcus bacteria normally inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals," the release continues. "The presence of an elevated concentration of these bacteria is an indicator of possible pollution, which may come from storm water runoff, pets, wildlife, or sewage."

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This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Enterococcus (poop) bacteria found at popular Bonita Beach Park