High levels of bacteria discovered at Tarpon Bay Beach

The Health Department is warning the public to stay out of the waters of Tarpon Bay Beach in Sanibel.

During routine testing on Friday, officials found unsafe levels of a bacteria that can increase the risk of disease.

Authorities set up signs near the water warning of high bacteria levels.

Health officials said the type of bacteria collected is usually found in the intestinal tract and could be a gastro nightmare, leading to stomach pain and diarrhea.

The bacteria could have come from stormwater runoff or sewage.

Jillina Cabaniss is vacationing with her family from Tennessee. "It's kind of a bummer but there is nothing you can do about it," she said.

The advisory will continue until bacteria levels drop. The Health Department will retest the waters at Tarpon Bay Beach on Tuesday.