VERO BEACH – The Florida Department of Health issued a swimming advisory in Indian River County after water samples showed levels of enterococci that exceeded the state limits.
The swimming advisory is for Sexton Plaza Beach, Humiston Beach, and South Beach in Vero Beach. These beaches are listed as “poor” under the Enterococcus Code.
At the Sebastian Inlet, the beaches are listed as moderate, but no advisory from the health department.
Enterococci are enteric bacteria that typically inhabit the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The presence of enteric bacteria can be an indication of fecal pollution, which may come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife, and human sewage, according to the Florida Department of Health website.
“If they are present in high concentrations in recreational waters and are ingested while swimming or enter the skin through a cut or sore, they may cause human disease, infections or rashes,” the health department said.
